Biological synthesis of calcite crystals using Scindapsus aureum petioles

We report a novel strategy for the biological synthesis of calcite crystals using the petioles of the plant Scindapsus aureum. The resultant calcite crystals were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffractometry, and electron diffraction. The biomolecules of S. aureum petioles were confirmed by UV–Vis and FT-IR analysis. The results showed that the spherical or rhombohedral calcite crystals were obtained in the cells of S. aureum petioles. Biomimetic synthesis of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in aqueous solution containing extracts of S. aureum petioles was also performed to investigate the soluble biomolecules’ influence on crystal growth of CaCO3. It was found that twinborn spherical calcite crystals were formed, suggesting that the soluble biomolecules of S. aureum play a crucial role in directing the formation of calcite spherical particles. The possible mechanism of formation of CaCO3 crystals using S. aureum is also discussed; the biomolecules of S. aureum may induce and control the nucleation and growth of CaCO3 crystals.