Biogenic Synthesis of Silver-Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Using Kulekhara Leaves Extract for Removing Crystal Violet and Malachite Green Dyes from Water

Abstract

Crystal violet and malachite green, cationic dyes, are widely used in various industries. Water-containing dye molecules affect human health and aquatic life. Here, we synthesized silver-iron oxide nanoparticles using an aqueous extract of kulekhara leaves. The main advantage of this synthesis is that no iron salts were used to prepare Ag-iron oxide nanoparticles. Iron-rich Kulekhara leaves provide iron oxide during the in situ formation of silver nanoparticles. Synthesized Ag-Fe2O3 nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, and STEM-Cs. The dye-degradation studies were performed using synthesized nanoparticles in the presence of sodium borohydride. In the catalytic reaction, the color of crystal violet and malachite green disappeared (100%) within three minutes, and the same results were obtained in their mixtures (1:1 v/v). The presence of Fe2O3 in AgNPs may boost the rapid reduction in azo bonds due to the higher exposed surface area. The color changes were monitored using UV-Vis spectroscopy. Comparative literature studies showed that the performance of Ag-Fe2O3 is superior regarding the degradation of malachite green and crystal violet. These findings could entice researchers to design and develop various dye degradation using this eco-friendly process.

Next-Generation Water Treatment: Exploring the Potential of Biopolymer-Based Nanocomposites in Adsorption and Membrane Filtration

“…AgNPs exhibit strong antibacterial and antiviral effects, while TiO 2 NPs can induce photocatalytic reactions to degrade organic pollutants in water [ 122 , 123 , 124 ]. In addition to these, other nanoparticles—such as zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) with their photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties [ 125 ]; iron oxide nanoparticles (FeOxNPs) for adsorption, catalytic degradation of dyes, and magnetic separation [ 126 , 127 ]; copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) for antimicrobial applications [ 128 ]; carbon-based nanoparticles like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene oxide (GO) for adsorption of contaminants [ 129 ]; cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO 2 NPs) for catalytic degradation [ 130 ]; and hybrid nanoparticles with tailored functionalities—are also being extensively studied [ 131 ]. Each type of nanoparticle brings unique advantages to water treatment processes, and ongoing research aims to harness their potential for efficient and sustainable water purification.…”

Bio-Based Polymeric Flocculants and Adsorbents for Wastewater Treatment

“…Water treatment is the key to removing contaminants and impurities from water, rendering it safe for consumption and various purposes [13][14][15]. Recently, there has been a surge of interest in utilizing bio-based polymeric materials for water treatment applications [16][17][18][19][20][21].…”