Photocatalytic and bactericidal activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles biosynthesized with Datura metel leaf extract

• Published in: Ionics 2024, Vol.30 (6), p.3637-3649
• Main Authors: Akila, K., Thambidurai, S., Suresh, N., Prabu, K. M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Absorption spectra; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Condensed Matter Physics; Degradation; Dyes; Effectiveness; Electrochemistry; Energy Storage; Methylene blue; Nanoparticles; Optical and Electronic Materials; Renewable and Green Energy; Zinc oxide
• ISSN: 0947-7047; 1862-0760
• DOI: 10.1007/s11581-024-05457-w

This study investigates the photocatalytic and antibacterial properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized using Datura metel ( D. Metel ) leaf extract and characterized by XRD, UV–Vis, FTIR, and FESEM with EDX. The XRD analysis confirmed the hexagonal crystalline structure (average size 23.67 nm). UV–Vis analysis revealed a 3.25-eV direct band gap. FTIR spectrum exhibited strong absorption band at 539.03 cm −1 related to ZnO. The FESEM images exhibited presence of spherical ZnO nanoparticles. EDX spectrum illustrates the presence of Zn and O elements confirming the pristine nature of ZnO nanoparticles. In sunlight exposure of 80 and 100 min, ZnO NPs exhibited 98.29% and 86.65% degradation efficiency for methylene blue and methyl orange. Antibacterial tests demonstrated significant efficacy against Bacillus cereus , resulting in a 6-mm inhibition zone. This eco-friendly approach highlights ZnO NPs’ potential in dye degradation and antibacterial applications.