Green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles using Ixora coccinea leaf extract for efficient removal of Co (II) from water
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56919/usci.2543.014Keywords:
Ixora coccinea, SEM, XRD, FTIR, UV-visible spectroscopyAbstract
The research described in this text uses leaf extract from Ixora coccinea as a natural reducing agent to produce zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in an environmentally friendly way. Instead of traditional chemical synthesis methods, the study highlights the potential of an eco-friendly approach. To create ZnO NPs sustainably, the researchers used leaf extract from Ixora coccinea, a plant native to parts of South Asia and grown in Nigeria. The leaf extract from Ixora coccinea served as the reducing and stabilizing agent in nanoparticle production, with zinc acetate acting as the precursor. UV-Visible absorption spectroscopy was employed to confirm the formation of ZnO NPs. Multiple analytical techniques characterized the synthesized nanoparticles. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to identify the functional groups involved in synthesis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyzed the size and shape of the nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction (XRD) determined the crystalline structure. The ZnO NPs were then used as an adsorbent to extract cobalt (II) ions from water. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) evaluated the effectiveness of the ZnO NPs in removing cobalt ions from aqueous solutions. Maximum Co(II) removal of 83.8% was achieved at pH 10.3 using 0.01 g/100 mL ZnO NPs. This study demonstrates how plant-mediated synthesis can produce ZnO NPs for heavy metal removal in water purification. By combining environmentally safe, sustainable nanoparticle production with their application in environmental cleanup, this work contributes to the growing field of green nanotechnology
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