Black oil sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus L) are the preferred feed for wild birds due to their high calorie content and their thin hulls. However, the oils can spoil easily in humid and hot climates resulting in wastage. Our hypothesis is that we can synthesize copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using sunflower seeds as a reducing agent. The process used involved a solution of copper sulfate, an extract of black oil sunflower seeds, and starch as a capping agent. Visual observation showed a change in color from a bright blue to a light brown color and formation of reddish-brown precipitates on heating, indicating the formation of CuNPs. On testing part of the precipitate with Cuprotesmo test papers, the test papers turned pink, indicating the presence of metallic copper. Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) images were analyzed using ImageJ software from the National Institute of Health (NIH) and showed a mean CuNP size of 58.55 nm. In shape, the synthesized CuNPs were mostly spherical. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis showed multiple copper peaks, proving that CuNPs were synthesized. We conclude that an extract of black oil sunflower seeds acts as a strong reducing agent.
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