Utilization of Prunus serrulata leaf extract for the synthesis and characterization of ZnO nanoparticles

Abstract

Using a green route for the synthesis of nanoparticles has become popular in recent years due to its easier, eco-friendly, faster and cheaper nature. This study explores the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles utilizing, for the first time, Prunus serrulata (Japanese Cherry Blossom) leaf extract as both a reducing and capping agent. The characterization of the nanoparticles was performed by employing several instrumental techniques. The X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) method was utilized to identify the amorphous crystal structure of the ZnO nanoparticles. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) were used to determine the homogenous and spherical geometry, having a size of 5–10 nm. X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) was used to observe the surface of the nanoparticles, which were present in the metal oxide form. Fourier Transform-Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) was also utilized to understand which types of organic groups are responsible for the stabilization of the nanoparticles.