Open AccessCatalytic degradation of methylene blue by biosynthesised copper nanoflowers using F. benghalensis leaf extract
Author(s) -
Agarwal Meenakshi,
Singh Bhadwal Akhshay,
Kumar Nishant,
Shrivastav Archana,
Raj Shrivastav Braj,
Pratap Singh Manoj,
Zafar Fahmina,
Mani Tripathi Ravi
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
iet nanobiotechnology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.366
H-Index - 38
eISSN - 1751-875X
pISSN - 1751-8741
DOI - 10.1049/iet-nbt.2015.0098
Subject(s) - copper , catalysis , scanning electron microscope , fourier transform infrared spectroscopy , methylene blue , nuclear chemistry , nanomaterials , materials science , chemical engineering , biomolecule , nanostructure , nanotechnology , chemistry , organic chemistry , photocatalysis , metallurgy , composite material , engineering
This study reports the unprecedented, novel and eco‐friendly method for the synthesis of three‐dimensional (3D) copper nanostructure having flower like morphology using leaf extract of Ficus benghalensis . The catalytic activity of copper nanoflowers (CuNFs) was investigated against methylene blue (MB) used as a modal dye pollutant. Scanning electron micrograph evidently designated 3D appearance of nanoflowers within a size range from 250 nm to 2.5 μm. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectra showed the presence of copper elements in the nanoflowers. Fourier‐transform infrared spectra clearly demonstrated the presence of biomolecules which is responsible for the synthesis of CuNFs. The catalytic activity of the synthesised CuNFs was monitored by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. The MB was degraded by 72% in 85 min on addition of CuNFs and the rate constant ( k ) was found to be 0.77 × 10 −3 s −1 . This method adapted for synthesis of CuNFs offers a valuable contribution in the area of nanomaterial synthesis and in water research by suggesting a sustainable and an alternative route for removal of toxic solvents and waste materials.