Green Synthesis of BaSO₄ NPs Using Antigonon Leptopus and Its Applications on Dye Degradation and Seedling Growth

Abstract

This study presents barium sulfate nanoparticles (BaSO4 NPs) synthesis and characterization using leaf extract from Antigonon leptopus Hook. & Arn. Various analytical techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX), and Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to confirm the structural properties, crystallinity, surface morphology, chemical purity, and presence of organic compounds. The XRD analysis indicated the crystallinity of BaSO4 NPs with an average crystallite size of 7.8 nm, whereas SEM imaging revealed round morphology and EDX confirmed good chemical purity. FTIR spectroscopy provided evidence of both BaSO4 NPs and organic compounds from the leaf extract. The synthesized BaSO4 NP was then applied to degrade four different azo and azonium dyes, demonstrating effectiveness under various conditions. Furthermore, the impact of BaSO4 NP on the germination and growth of foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P.Beauv.) was investigated. Preliminary findings suggested that BaSO4 NPs promoted seed germination and growth of foxtail millet at low concentrations. However, caution is advised as higher concentrations may have a toxic effect. Overall, this study highlights the potential of bio‐forged BaSO4 NPs for environmental remediation (dye degradation) and agricultural applications (enhancement of seed germination and growth) while emphasizing the importance of dosage control due to potential toxicity at higher concentrations.