Synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles using Parkia speciosa Hassk pod extract and photocatalytic activity for Bromophenol blue degradation

Abstract

Green synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles using Parkia speciosa Hassk pod extract and their photocatalytic activity were studied. Heterogeneous magnetic nanoparticles were prepared by a reduction reaction between iron (II) and iron (III) solution in the presence of P. speciosa Hassk pod extract. The physicochemical characteristics of the nanoparticles were identified using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM) techniques. Bromophenol blue (BPB) degradation via photocatalytic activity of the nanoparticles was evaluated under UV and visible light sources. The nanoparticles obtained consisted of a combination of Fe3O4 and Fe2O3 particles, with sizes in the range of 10–80 nm. The particles exhibited magnetic properties, as well as excellent photocatalytic degradation of BPB under both UV and visible light exposure, with degradation efficiency of about 98%. The results imply that the nanoparticles have potential use as photocatalysts, with applications in dye-containing wastewater degradation.