Green synthesis of iron nanoparticles and photocatalytic activity evaluation for the degradation of methylene blue dye

The present study focuses on iron nanoparticles (Fe NPs) biosynthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity (PCA) appraisal for methylene blue dye degradation. A green rapid biogenic synthesis route was employed for synthesis of Fe NPs using banana peel extract. The synthesized Fe NPs was characterized by XRD (X-ray diffraction), SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and EDX (energy dispersive X-ray) techniques. These analysis confirmed the synthesis of zero valent Fe NPs with high crystallinity, purity and semi spherical in shape. The photocatalytic activity was assessed under ultra violet irradiation and under optimum conditions, 87% degradation of MB dye was obtained for 72 min of irradiation, which revealed promising catalytic efficiency of the Fe NPs. The result shows that photocatalytic activity of Fe NPs is promising and could possibly be used to treat dyes in industrial effluents and the use of green synthetic protocol is suggested due to its ecofriendly nature.

Automated summary

The present study successfully synthesized iron nanoparticles through a green rapid biogenic synthesis route, and confirmed their high crystallinity, purity, and semi-spherical shape. Under ultraviolet irradiation, the iron nanoparticles exhibited high photocatalytic activity for methylene blue dye degradation, making them a potential candidate for industrial wastewater treatment. The study highlights the promising potential of iron nanoparticles and suggests the use of green synthesis protocols due to their eco-friendly nature.