ZnO Nanoparticles Research Articles

Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles from Sargassum ilicifolium to enhance tomato resistance against Tuta absoluta

This study evaluated the effects of ZnO and green-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) from Sargassum ilicifolium extract on the biochemical interactions between tomato leaves and the destructive pest Tuta absoluta. The average size and stability of ZnO-NPs were characterized using DLS, X-RD, and FE-SEM. Peaks in the FT-IR spectrum of the extract of the algae and ZnO-NPs, indicated the presence of carboxyl groups, amines, alkynes and alcohols. Treated tomato leaves exhibited increased total chlorophyll and anthocyanin contents, particularly at 100 and 50 ppm, compared to the control. A significant increase in total flavonoid content was observed at 100 ppm, while total phenolic content was also enhanced at 50 ppm. In T. absoluta larvae, exposure to 50 and 100 ppm ZnO-NPs led to a reduction in α-amylase, total protease, total protein, and TAG levels, alongside increased catalase activity. Additionally, G6PD and ALT activities decreased at 50 ppm compared to the control. Lactate, MDA, and the RSSR/RSH increased at 100 ppm. Furthermore, ZnO-NPs at 50 and 100 ppm elevated larval aldolase activity, while AST and γ-GT activities declined. These findings indicate that ZnO-NPs enhance tomato defense mechanisms and mitigate larval damage, supporting their potential use in integrated pest management strategies against T. absoluta.

Zingerone based green synthesized sodium doped zinc oxide nanoparticles eliminate U87 glioblastoma cells by inducing apoptosis

Grade IV astrocytoma, also referred to as glioblastoma (GBM), is the most common type of glioma, accounting for over 60% of all brain tumors. It is still a fatal illness in spite of years of investigation and does not currently have a treatment. Thus, scientists and medical professionals are constantly trying to understand the molecular processes and heterogeneity of GBM as well as looking for new ways to improve treatment results. Numerous studies have indicated that nanomaterials, and more especially nanoparticles, offer a great deal of potential for killing cancer cells; as a result, they are being considered as a potential alternative cancer treatment. Several studies have demonstrated that ZnO NPs have shown specific cytotoxicity against cancer cells while leaving normal cells unharmed. In this study we aim to synthesize sodium doped zinc oxide NPs using zingerone in an environmentally friendly manner to evaluate their cytotoxic effects on U87 GBM cell line and normal HEK cell line and investigate the occurrence of apoptosis via apoptosis assay by flowcytometry and gene expression study of TP53 and related genes to apoptosis and cell cycle regulation pathways. It was demonstrated that Na-doped ZnO NPs had a significant cytotoxic effect on U87 cells while having significantly less effect on normal HEK cells. Na-doped ZnO NPs eliminated cancerous cells through apoptosis induction and possibly cell cycle regulation via up-regulation of TP53, PTEN, BAX, P21 and down-regulation of Bcl2. The unique physicochemical properties of nanoparticles turn them into fascinating agents to treat GBM. Hence, the necessity of exploring the vast, yet unknown field of nanoparticles potentials cannot be over looked.

Zinc oxide nanoparticle interface moderation enhances the extent of α-synuclein sequestering against the protein amyloidosis.

Zinc oxide nanoparticle interface moderation enhances the extent of α-synuclein sequestering against the protein amyloidosis.

Nanotechnology in Pest Management: Mechanisms, Impacts, and Future Directions for Sustainable Agriculture

The increasing prevalence of pesticide-resistant pests and the negative environmental impacts of chemical pesticides have prompted researchers to explore alternative pest control strategies that are efficient, eco-friendly, and sustainable. Nanotechnology offers innovative solutions for developing eco-friendly pest control strategies that address the limitations of conventional pesticides. The potential of various nanomaterials, including metal nanoparticles, metal oxide nanoparticles, carbon-based nanomaterials, nano emulsions, and biogenic nanoparticles, for insect pest management. Studies indicate that nanoparticles exhibit strong insecticidal properties through mechanisms such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, metal ion release, cuticle penetration, desiccation, and disruption of cellular processes. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) have demonstrated high efficacy against pests like Spodoptera litura and Aedes aegypti, achieving mortality rates exceeding 80% at low concentrations. Nano formulations of botanical insecticides improve their stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery, enhancing their effectiveness against a wide range of pests. Despite their promising potential, concerns about toxicity, environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and adverse effects on non-target organisms remain critical challenges. Current research highlights the need for developing biodegradable and eco-friendly nanomaterials to minimize ecological risks. Biodegradable polymer-based nanoparticles, such as chitosan and alginate, have also been explored for their compatibility with biological control agents and enhanced environmental safety. The lack of comprehensive regulatory frameworks hinders the commercialization and safe application of nano pesticides. Nevertheless, regulatory agencies, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have initiated efforts to establish guidelines for evaluating the safety of nanomaterials. Current regulations primarily focus on assessing toxicity, environmental persistence, and potential bioaccumulation. Nanoparticle-pest interactions, elucidating molecular mechanisms of toxicity, and conducting long-term environmental assessments. Establishing standardized safety guidelines and integrating nanotechnology into existing pest management policies will be essential for promoting responsible use. Enhancing consumer awareness and market acceptance will play a crucial role in advancing the commercialization of nano pesticides. Studies demonstrate that nanoparticles such as silver, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide exhibit strong insecticidal properties through mechanisms like ROS generation, metal ion release, and cuticle penetration. Overall, nanotechnology holds significant potential for achieving sustainable pest management by improving pesticide efficacy, reducing environmental contamination, and minimizing adverse effects on non-target organisms.

Photocatalytic Degradation of Malachite Green Dye by Using Microwave Synthesized ZnO and Sr Doped ZnO Nanoparticles: A Comparative Study

Photocatalytic Degradation of Malachite Green Dye by Using Microwave Synthesized ZnO and Sr Doped ZnO Nanoparticles: A Comparative Study

Chitosan–Schiff Base Cu(II) Complex-Grafted ZnO Nanoparticles as a Photocatalyst for Degrading Pharmaceutical Pollutants Under Diverse Light Sources

Chitosan–Schiff Base Cu(II) Complex-Grafted ZnO Nanoparticles as a Photocatalyst for Degrading Pharmaceutical Pollutants Under Diverse Light Sources

A sensitive detecting and analyzing of indigo carmine at ZnO nanoparticle modified carbon paste electrode: a voltammetric study

A sensitive detecting and analyzing of indigo carmine at ZnO nanoparticle modified carbon paste electrode: a voltammetric study

Enhanced Xylan/PVA Composite Films via Nano-ZnO Reinforcement for Sustainable Food Packaging

The development of biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based packaging is essential for environmental sustainability. This study presents a novel approach to enhance the performance of hemicellulose-based films by fabricating xylan/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composites reinforced with zinc oxide nanoparticles (nano-ZnO). To address nano-ZnO agglomeration, sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) was utilized as a dispersant, while sorbitol improved film flexibility. The composite films were prepared via solution casting, and the effects of nano-ZnO content (0–2.5 wt%) on mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties were systematically evaluated. Results showed that at 2 wt% nano-ZnO loading, the tensile strength increased from 15.0 MPa (control) to 26.15 MPa, representing a 74% enhancement, while oxygen permeability decreased from 1.83 to 0.50 (cm3·μm)/(m2·d·kPa). Additionally, the thermal stability also improved due to hydrogen bonding and uniform nanoparticle dispersion. At this optimized loading, the hydrophobcity was also maximized, with the contact angle peaking at 74.4° and water vapor permeability decreasing by 18% (1.53·10−6·g·h−1·m−1·Pa−1). Excessive nano-ZnO loading (>2 wt%) induced particle agglomeration, generating stress concentrators that disrupted the polymer–nanoparticle interface and compromised mechanical integrity. These findings highlight the potential of nano-ZnO-modified xylan/PVA films as sustainable, high-performance alternatives to conventional packaging. The synergistic use of SHMP and nano-ZnO provides a strategy for designing eco-friendly materials with tunable properties, advancing the use of biomass in food preservation applications.

Saraca asoca extract mediated ZnO/PVA nanocomposite coatings for orthopaedic implants

Orthopaedic implants commonly use titanium and its alloys because of their superior mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. However, these metal implants have limited application, hindered by poor osseointegration and the potential risk of implant-associated infections. To overcome these obstacles, this study intends to address these issues by integrating haemocompatible and antibacterial coatings made from green synthesised zinc oxide nanoparticles, using Saraca asoca leaf extract (SA-ZnO). These nanoparticles may serve to improve the osteoconductivity and limit bacterial growth at the site of implant. The prepared nanoparticles (SA-ZnO) were characterized using various techniques and then integrated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), resulting in (SA-ZnO/PVA) nanocomposite. These prepared nanocomposites were further coated onto the Titanium alloy substrate (Ti-6Al-4V) using doctor's blade technique and morphologically characterized. Atomic force microscopy analysis demonstrated that SA-ZnO/PVA nanocomposite coated substrate exhibited favourable micro-roughness, enhancing cell attachment and promoting protein adsorption, which is crucial for effective osseointegration. Additionally, haemocompatibility tests demonstrated no adverse effects on blood cells, indicating the coating's compatibility with biological systems. Antimicrobial studies showed a significant zone of inhibition against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, highlighting the antibacterial potential of SA-ZnO/PVA nanocomposite coatings. Thus, these findings imply that the green synthesised ZnO nanoparticles amalgamated with (PVA) serve as promising surface coating materials, that can be used effectively in orthopaedic implants to reduce bacterial adherence and growth, thus lowering the incidence of postoperative infections and enhancing overall implant integration success.

Optimized size and stability of composite CuO–ZnO metal oxide nanoparticles for efficient removal of Reactive Black 5 dye

AbstractBACKGROUNDThe increasing contamination of water bodies with industrial dyes necessitates efficient remediation strategies. CuO–ZnO composite nanoparticles (NPs) have shown promise as adsorbents due to their high surface area, stability, and tunable properties. This study focuses on optimizing the synthesis conditions of CuO‐ZnO NPs via a co‐precipitation method and evaluating their performance for the removal of Reactive Black 5 (RB5) dye.RESULTSCuO–ZnO composite NPs were synthesized with varied precursor ratios, pH values, temperatures, and reagent addition times to achieve optimal size and stability. Characterization using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, fluorescence, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, vibrating‐sample magnetometry, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis confirmed the structural, optical, and physical properties of the optimized composite. The smallest size and highest stability for a concentration ratio of 50:50 was obtained at pH 11, 80 °C, and a reagent addition time of 5 min. Composite NPs show ferromagnetic behavior. The adsorption efficiency of RB5 dye was studied under different operational parameters, revealing that maximum removal (92%) occurred at pH 2 with a contact time of 60 min. Adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo‐first‐order model, while equilibrium data aligned with the Freundlich isotherm, indicating multilayer adsorption. Thermodynamic analysis confirmed the endothermic and spontaneous nature of the process.CONCLUSIONThe optimized CuO–ZnO composite NPs demonstrated high efficiency for RB5 dye removal and maintained significant reusability across multiple adsorption–desorption cycles. These findings highlight the potential of CuO–ZnO NPs as an effective and sustainable adsorbent for wastewater treatment. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).

Bio Synthesis of Nanoparticles from Bio Waste and Its Application on Anti Corrosion, Antifungal and Paint Applications

This study demonstrates the green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using pomegranate and orange peel extracts, with pomegranate proving more effective based on a UV-Vis absorption peak at 390 nm. SEM and DLS analyses revealed nanoparticle sizes ranging from 100–250 nm and an average hydrodynamic diameter of 238.7 nm (PDI 0.296). FTIR confirmed the presence of phytochemical capping agents, while XRD validated a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The nanoparticles exhibited strong antifungal activity, with 100 µL of ZnO formulation producing inhibition zones of 12 mm and 15 mm against Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger, respectively. In corrosion resistance testing, ZnO-incorporated paint showed significantly less rust compared to normal paint after 10 days of salt spray exposure, and the nanoparticle spray visibly reduced rust within 5 minutes. These findings highlight the potential of fruit peel-derived ZnO nanoparticles as eco-friendly, multifunctional agents for antifungal coatings and corrosion prevention, aligning with green chemistry and sustainable waste utilization practices. KEYWORDS: Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles, Green Synthesis, Antifungal Activity, Corrosion Resistance, Surface Protection.

Enhancement of friction behavior and self-healing capabilities in nitrile rubber through ZnO nanoparticles incorporation

This study investigates a novel approach to enhance XNBR composites through the incorporation of synthesized ZnO nanoparticles with controlled morphology. The ZnO nanoparticles, synthesized via a modified co-precipitation method, exhibited uniform size distribution with 90% of particles ranging between 35-55 nm. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed dual transition behavior, with a distinct ionic transition peak emerging above the glass transition temperature. The storage modulus at room temperature increased from 3.2 MPa to 7.8 MPa with 7.5 phr ZnO loading, while maintaining elongation at break above 600%. Tribological testing demonstrated significant improvements, with the composite achieving a 78% reduction in wear rate and maintaining stable friction coefficients under dry sliding conditions. Temperature-dependent self-healing studies showed progressive improvement in recovery rates, with maximum efficiency achieved at 80°C. The formation of ionic clusters, confirmed through FTIR analysis, played a crucial role in both mechanical reinforcement and self-healing mechanisms. The optimized composite demonstrated a 30% increase in crosslink density compared to conventional ZnO-cured systems, leading to enhanced thermal stability with char yield improving from 8% to 15% at 600°C.

Insecticidal Efficiency of Green-Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Bean Weevil, Acanthoscelides obtectus Say. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

The use of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) as a bio-insecticide has gained increasing attention due to their eco-friendly properties and proven efficacy in controlling pest populations. This study comprehensively assessed the insecticidal activity of ZnO-NPs against the bean weevil, Acanthoscelides obtectus Say. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), by analyzing mortality rates in a dose-dependent manner under controlled laboratory conditions. ZnO-NPs were synthesized and characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), confirming their spherical shape and nanoscale dimensions (~100 nm). Mortality was monitored over a 10-day period at doses of 100, 250, 500, 750 and 1000 mg kg⁻¹. The Abbott formula was used to account for natural mortality. The two-way ANOVA results revealed that both dose and exposure duration had significant effects on insect mortality rates. Also, One-Way ANOVA showed a significant dose-dependent increase in mortality, with the highest dose (1000 mg kg⁻¹) achieving a corrected mortality rate of 93.3%. These findings highlight the significant potential of ZnO-NPs as a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical insecticides, particularly for integrated pest management strategies in stored products. Future studies should focus on optimizing control practices in storage facilities and evaluating the long-term effects on non-target organisms. Additionally, research on different doses and application methods to ensure safe and effective use should also be encouraged.

Analysis of heat treatment on hydrogen impurities associated to Zn vacancy and other intrinsic defects in ZnO nanoparticles

This paper will present a comprehensive examination of unintentional hydrogen impurity in ZnO along with its stability and application. Results are based on the sampled synthesized by hydrothermal technique. The unique outcome of this study is co-existence of Zn and Hydrogen impurity including their complexes. Moreover, the existence and role of Zn and O di-vacancies also discussed. Synthesized nanoparticles analyzed by using XRD pattern, photoluminescence spectrum, Raman spectrum and positron annihilation experiment. The broad luminescence in visible region confirms the presence of different defects and impurities. Breakdown of the translation symmetry of the ZnO lattice also discussed based on Raman spectrum. Positron life time components provide the support to define the role of hydrogen impurity.

Enhanced Optical Properties of Ce-Doped ZnO Nanoparticles via A Green Plant-Based Synthesis Approach

Enhanced Optical Properties of Ce-Doped ZnO Nanoparticles via A Green Plant-Based Synthesis Approach

Green synthesis of flower-like ZnO nanoparticles mediated by paulownia tomentosa: characterization and drug delivery performance

This study reports an eco-friendly synthesis of hierarchically structured zinc oxide nanoparticles using Paulownia tomentosa leaf extract as a bio-template. The synthesized nanoparticles displayed a distinctive flower-like morphology developed through a threestage assembly process, confirmed by time-dependent morphological analysis. BET analysis revealed a mesoporous structure with type IV isotherms and H3 hysteresis loops. Spectroscopic characterization confirmed the wurtzite crystal structure with characteristic Raman modes at 438 cm⁻¹ (E2-high), 380 cm⁻¹ (A1-TO), and 583 cm⁻¹ (E1-LO). Surface modification with PEG-4000 enhanced the nanoparticles' performance as drug carriers, demonstrating Korsmeyer-Peppas model release kinetics (R² = 0.992) with a release exponent of 0.68. The nanostructures showed 2.3-fold higher drug loading capacity compared to conventional spherical ZnO particles. Biological evaluation revealed significant antimicrobial efficacy with inhibition zones of 28 mm against S. aureus and 24 mm against E. coli at 100 µg/mL concentration, while demonstrating selective cytotoxicity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells with minimal effect on normal breast epithelial cells.

Sustainable synthesis of gold-embedded ZnO nanoparticles from natural extract for environmental and biomedical applications

Sustainable synthesis of gold-embedded ZnO nanoparticles from natural extract for environmental and biomedical applications

High-Sensitivity Room-Temperature Detection of H2S Using ZnO/Ti3C2TX Nanocomposite: Potential Applications in Exhaled Gas Monitoring.

The detection of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in exhaled breath at room temperature is essential for health monitoring and disease diagnosis. This study investigates a ZnO/Ti3C2TX nanocomposite synthesized by combining ZnO nanoparticles, prepared by a hydrothermal method, with Ti3C2TX MXene. Experimental results demonstrate that the ZnO/Ti3C2TX nanocomposite sensors exhibit excellent H2S detection performance at room temperature with high sensitivity, rapid response time, and robust recovery capability. Specifically, the ZnO/Ti3C2TX-1.0 wt % nanocomposite sensor shows a response of 85.116 at 5 ppm of H2S, which is 14-fold and 35-fold greater than that of pure ZnO and Ti3C2TX MXene, respectively. The sensor exhibits a rapid response (50 s) and recovery time (115 s) at 100 ppb of H2S. Additionally, it shows exceptional sensitivity to H2S at low concentrations, with a detection limit as low as 1 ppb. Based on the excellent sensing performance, oral exhaled gas detection demonstrates that the sensor effectively differentiates H2S levels in healthy and patient breath samples. These findings highlight the potential of the ZnO/Ti3C2TX nanocomposite in exhaled H2S detection at room temperature, offering new insights for developing ultrasensitive biogas sensors.

Green Approaches in synthesizing Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnoNPs) of Pomelo (Citrus Maxima) Extract for Anti-Biofilm and Anti-Bacterial Agent

Green Approaches in synthesizing Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnoNPs) of Pomelo (Citrus Maxima) Extract for Anti-Biofilm and Anti-Bacterial Agent

Correction: Shobha et al. Trichoderma-Mediated ZnO Nanoparticles and Their Antibiofilm and Antibacterial Activities. J. Fungi 2023, 9, 133

In the original article [...]