Green synthesis of ZnO and Ni-doped ZnO from okra stalks for the photocatalytic degradation of Procion Red MX-5B

• Published in: International journal of phytoremediation 2025-01, Vol.27 (2), p.206-214
• Main Authors: Horoz, Sabit, Orak, Ceren, Biçer, Emre
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Catalysts; Catalytic activity; Chemical synthesis; Degradation; Efficiency; Green synthesis; Hydrogen peroxide; Nickel; Okra; okra stalks; Photocatalysis; Photodegradation; phytoremediation; Pollutant removal; Procion; Procion Red MX-5B; Zinc oxide
• ISSN: 1522-6514; 1549-7879; 1549-7879
• DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2024.2411248

This study investigates the photocatalytic degradation of Procion Red MX-5B (PRM) using ZnO and Ni-doped ZnO catalysts derived from okra stalks through a green synthesis method. Various parameters, including hydrogen peroxide concentration (HPC), catalyst amount, nickel (Ni) doping amount, initial PRM concentration, and pH, are systematically studied to assess their impact on PRM degradation efficiency. The results reveal that both ZnO and Ni-doped ZnO catalysts exhibit promising photocatalytic activity, with the highest PRM degradation efficiency achieved at the following reaction conditions: 6 mM of HPC, 40 mg of Ni(7%):ZnO catalyst, 10 ppm initial PRM concentration, and pH = 6. Under these conditions, the Ni-doped ZnO catalyst demonstrated a degradation efficiency of 98.08% compared to 82.99% for the ZnO catalyst. The study highlights the potential of these catalysts for efficient organic pollutant removal and provides valuable insights into the factors influencing their photocatalytic performance. This study introduces an innovative approach by utilizing okra stalks as a sustainable source for the green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) and nickel-doped zinc oxide (Ni-doped ZnO) nanoparticles. Unlike conventional methods that rely on harmful chemicals and energy-intensive processes, this work leverages a bio-based, eco-friendly synthesis method. The application of Ni-doped ZnO as a photocatalyst for the degradation of Procion Red MX-5B, a widely used azo dye, is unprecedented. Our findings highlight the enhanced catalytic efficiency of Ni over pristine ZnO, achieving a remarkable degradation efficiency of 98.08% under optimized conditions. This work not only expands the application scope of green-synthesized nanomaterials but also contributes significantly to the field of environmental remediation through sustainable technology.