Acalypha indica– mediated green synthesis of ZnO nanostructures under differential thermal treatment: Effect on textile coating, hydrophobicity, UV resistance, and antibacterial activity

Characterization and potentiality of plant-derived silver nanoparticles for enhancement of biomass and hydrogen production in Chlorella sp. under nitrogen deprived condition

Energy is a crucial entity for the development and it has various alternative forms of energy sources. Recently, the synthesis of nanoparticles using benign biocatalyst has attracted increased attention. In this study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized using Azadirachta indica plant-derived phytochemical as the reducing agent. Biomass of the microalga Chlorella sp. cultivated in BG11 medium increased after exposure to low concentrations of up to 0.48 mg L-1 AgNPs. In addition, algal cells treated with 0.24 mg L-1 AgNPs and cultivated in BG110 medium which contained no nitrogen source showed the highest hydrogen yield of 10.8 mmol L-1, whereas the untreated cells under the same conditions showed very low hydrogen yield of 0.003 mmol L-1. The enhanced hydrogen production observed in the treated cells was consistent with an increase in hydrogenase activity. Treatment of BG110 grown cells with low concentration of green synthesized AgNPs at 0.24 mg L-1 enhanced hydrogenase activity with a 5-fold increase of enzyme activity compared to untreated BG110 grown cells. In addition, to improve photolytic water splitting efficiency for hydrogen production, cells treated with AgNPs at 0.24 mg L-1 showed highest oxygen evolution signifying improvement in photosynthesis. The silver nanoparticles synthesized using phytochemicals derived from plant enhanced both microalgal biomass and hydrogen production with an added advantage of CO2 reduction which could be achieved due to an increase in biomass. Hence, treating microalgae with nanoparticles provided a promising strategy to reduce the atmospheric carbon dioxide as well as increasing production of hydrogen as clean energy.

A Review of Plant-Mediated ZnO Nanoparticles for Photodegradation and Antibacterial Applications

This review focuses on the synthesis of plant-mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and their applications for antibacterial and photocatalytic degradation of dyes, thereby addressing the need for sustainable and eco-friendly methods for the preparation of NPs. Driven by the significant rise in antibiotic resistance and environmental pollution from dye pollution, there is a need for more effective antibacterial agents and photocatalysts. Therefore, this review explores the synthesis of plant-mediated ZnO NPs, and the influence of reaction parameters such as pH, annealing temperature, plant extract concentration, etc. Additionally, it also looks at the application of plant-mediated ZnO NPs for antibacterial and photodegradation of dyes, focusing on the influence of the properties of the plant-mediated ZnO NPs such as size, shape, and bandgap on the antibacterial and photocatalytic activity. The findings suggest that properties such as shape and size are influenced by reaction parameters and these properties also influence the antibacterial and photocatalytic activity of plant-mediated ZnO NPs. This review concludes that plant-mediated ZnO NPs have the potential to advance green and sustainable materials in antibacterial and photocatalysis applications.

Cutting-edge developments in zinc oxide nanoparticles: synthesis and applications for enhanced antimicrobial and UV protection in healthcare solutions

This paper presents a comprehensive review of recent advancements in utilizing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) to enhance antimicrobial and UV protective properties in healthcare solutions. It delves into the synthesis techniques of ZnO NPs and elucidates their antimicrobial efficacy, exploring the underlying mechanisms governing their action against a spectrum of pathogens. Factors impacting the antimicrobial performance of ZnO NPs, including size, surface characteristics, and environmental variables, are extensively analyzed. Moreover, recent studies showcasing the effectiveness of ZnO NPs against diverse pathogens are critically examined, underscoring their potential utility in combatting microbial infections. The study further investigates the UV protective capabilities of ZnO NPs, elucidating the mechanisms by which they offer UV protection and reviewing recent innovations in leveraging them for UV-blocking applications in healthcare. It also dissects the factors influencing the UV shielding performance of ZnO NPs, such as particle size, dispersion quality, and surface coatings. Additionally, the paper addresses challenges associated with integrating ZnO NPs into healthcare products and presents future perspectives for overcoming these hurdles. It emphasizes the imperative for continued research efforts and collaborative initiatives to fully harness the potential of ZnO NPs in developing advanced healthcare solutions with augmented antimicrobial and UV protective attributes. By advancing our understanding and leveraging innovative approaches, ZnO NPs hold promise for addressing pressing healthcare needs and enhancing patient care outcomes.

Physicochemical and photocatalytic properties of biogenic ZnO and its chitosan nanocomposites for UV-protection and antibacterial activity on coated textiles

The textiles for medical use and the purification of textile factory effluents have become the most crucial part of the human healthcare sector. In this study bioactive compounds produced by four distinct plant extracts were used for the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles. The four different ZnO nanoparticles were comprehensively characterized by different analytical techniques. XRD analysis revealed the crystalline nature and phase purity of the ZnO nanoparticles. FTIR spectra provided information on the function of plant extracts in the stabilization or capping process. The size distribution and morphological diversity of the nanoparticles were further clarified by SEM and TEM images. The photocatalytic degradation activity of the four ZnO nanoparticles on two different dyes showed that ZnO nanoparticles prepared from A. indica were most effective for the degradation of 98 % and 91 % of Rhodamine B and Alizarin red dye respectively. The selected ZnO nanoparticles from A. indica were used to prepare ZnO-chitosan nanocomposites before coating on cotton fabrics. The hydrophobicity, UV protection factor, and antibacterial activity of ZnO-chitosan nanocomposites, when coated on cotton fabrics, were also examined. The overall results demonstrated the ZnO and ZnO-chitosan nanocomposite prepared in the present study as a promising material for environmental remediation application.

Improving ultraviolet protection properties of cotton textiles using Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanomaterials: an approach for controlling occupational and environmental exposures

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure is one of the most important risk factor among workers. it may stimulate health outcomes such as multiple skin injuries and blinding eye diseases. So, UV protection is mainly important for people who expose to it. Modification of cotton textiles by nanomaterials is a new approach to overcome this problem. So, the aim of this study is to review studies conducted on using ZnO nanoparticles for improving ultraviolet protection of cotton textiles. The search strategy was provided by cochrane guideline. 45 studies were regarded as appropriate. The results show that UPF for textiles has improved by coated ZnO. However, UPF was depended on the physicochemical characteristics of ZnO and textiles such as yarn structure, effect of woven fabric construction, fabric porosity, and impurity of textiles and laundering conditions. Also, plasma technology has improved UPF, it is recommended that more studies be done to achieve better results.

Rhizospheric nano-remediation salvages arsenic genotoxicity: Zinc-oxide nanoparticles articulate better oxidative stress management, reduce arsenic uptake, and increase yield in Pisum sativum (L.)

Pea (Pisum sativum L.), a legume, has a high nutritional content, but arsenic (As) in the agro-ecosystem poses a significant bottleneck to its yield, especially in South East Asia, by severely hampering ontogeny. The present study proposes a rhizospheric nano-remediation strategy to evade As-genotoxicity and improve crop yield using biogenic zinc-oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs). Similar to any other source of environmental stress, As-toxicity caused rapid oxidative bursts with deterioration in morpho-physiological attributes (germination rate, shoot length, and root length decreased by 62 %, 16 %, and 14.9 % respectively in the negative control, over normal control). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation (12.8 and 9-fold increase in leaves and roots) overburdened antioxidative defense, and loss of cellular homeostasis resulted in membrane damage (82.75 % increase) and electrolyte-leakage (2.6-fold increase) in negative control. The study also reveals a significant increase in nuclear area, nuclear fragmentation, and micronuclei formation in root tip cells under As-stress, indicating severe genomic instability and increased programmed cell death (3.3-fold increase in early apoptotic cells) due to leaky plasma membrane and unrepaired DNA damage. Application of ZnONPs significantly reduced As-toxicity in peas due to its adsorption in the rhizosphere, causing diminished As-uptake and better antioxidant response. Improved phytochelatin synthesis enhanced vacuolar sequestration of arsenic, which reduced As-interference. Comparatively better flowering time (7.74-19.36 % reduction in flowering delay) with greater transcript abundance of GIGANTIA (GI), CONSTANS (CO), and FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) genes; better photosynthetic activity (1.3-1.9-fold increased chlorophyll autofluorescence); increased pollen viability; lesser genotoxicity (decreased tail DNA in comet assay) was noticed. A maximum increase of 37.5 % in pod number and seed zinc content (1.67-fold) was observed while seed arsenic content decreased under ZnONPs treatment. However, the highest dose of ZnONPs (400 mg L-1) induced NP-toxicity in pea plants under our experimental conditions, while optimum stress-alleviation was observed up to 300 mg L-1.

Novel smart fiber/metal/chitosan composite as a filter for self-detoxifying photocatalytic wastewater remediation and biomedical applications

Wastewater treatment remains the most significant delinquent issue world-wide. Generally, wastewater treatment involves filtration followed by acidified de-emulsification through photocatalytic reduction. The aim of the present study is to reduce the use of nanoparticles in wastewater treatment and also to find an appropriate alternative to replace cotton fiber filters used in water treatment plant. The cotton fiber filters are highly prone to bacterial film development leading to bactericidal degradation of the fibers. We developed a ZnO-chitosan nanocomposite coated fiber for wastewater treatment to enhance its photocatalytic activity under acidic condition. The fiber showed high degree of photocatalytic degradation activity, reducing rhodamine B dye, chemical oxygen demand and chromium levels in the synthetic wastewater to 37, 79 and 51% respectively under highly acidic condition. Additionally, ZnO-chitosan nanocomposite did not cause mortality on Danio rerio embryo after 72 h incubation. The ZnO-chitosan nanocomposite coated fiber showed strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with a reduction of 96% and 99% respectively. This study demonstrated the potential of a novel smart fiber in wastewater treatment and biomedical applications.

Sunlight-assisted photocatalytic degradation of orange G dye using cost-effective zinc oxide nanoparticles

We have used an environmentally friendly approach to produce zinc oxide nanoparticles from an aqueous extract of Cucumis maderaspatanus L. leaves (Cm-ZnO NPs). Leaf extract phytoconstituents work as both reducing and stabilising agents. Calcination at 300, 500, 700, and 800 °C allowed fine-tuning of the bandgap of synthesised Cm-ZnO NPs, which has been well-characterized. The XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of the Cm-ZnO NPs. The Cm-ZnO NPs were found to be spherical and averaged 8.6 nm in size, as determined by transmission electron microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. TGA testing validated the nanoparticles' resilience to heat. The zeta potential measurements showed that the Cm-ZnO NPs were stable. By analysing the sorption of nitrogen onto the nanoparticles, we were able to calculate their surface area, which came in at 19 m2/g. The degradation of orange G (OG) dye in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) served as an oxidizing agent and measured the photocatalytic efficiency of the Cm-ZnO NPs. In addition, the effect of varying dye, H2O2, and catalyst concentrations on photodegradation was studied. The rate of reactions was computed. In conclusion, the obtained data demonstrated that the produced Cm-ZnO NPs can be employed as a cost-efficient catalyst for textile industrial effluent treatment.

Improved cotton fabrics properties using zinc oxide-based nanomaterials: A review

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have gained significant attention in the textile industry for their ability to enhance the physicochemical properties of fabrics. In recent years, there has been a growing focus on the development of ZnO-based nanomaterials and their applications for cotton and other fabrics. This review paper provides an overview of the synthesis and diverse applications of ZnO-based nanomaterials for textile fabrics, including protection against UV irradiation, bacteria, fungi, microwave, electromagnetic radiation, water, and fire. Furthermore, the study offers the potential of these materials in energy harvesting applications, such as wearable pressure sensors, piezoelectric nanogenerators, supercapacitors, and human energy harvesting. Additionally, we discuss the potential of ZnO-based nanomaterials for environmental cleaning, including water, oil, and solid cleaning. The current research in this area has focused on various materials used to prepare ZnO-based nanocomposites, such as metals/nonmetals, semiconductors, metal oxides, carbon materials, polymers, MXene, metal-organic frameworks, and layered double hydroxides. The findings of this review highlight the potential of ZnO-based nanomaterials to improve the performance of textile fabrics in a range of applications, and the importance of continued research in this field to further advance the development and use of ZnO-based nanomaterials in the textile industry.

Green Nanomaterials for Smart Textiles Dedicated to Environmental and Biomedical Applications

Smart textiles recently reaped significant attention owing to their potential applications in various fields, such as environmental and biomedical monitoring. Integrating green nanomaterials into smart textiles can enhance their functionality and sustainability. This review will outline recent advancements in smart textiles incorporating green nanomaterials for environmental and biomedical applications. The article highlights green nanomaterials' synthesis, characterization, and applications in smart textile development. We discuss the challenges and limitations of using green nanomaterials in smart textiles and future perspectives for developing environmentally friendly and biocompatible smart textiles.

Eliminating xenobiotics organic compounds from greywater through green synthetic nanoparticles

Xenobiotic Organic Compounds (XOCs) have been widely considered to be pollutant compounds due to their harmful impacts on aquatic life. However, there have been few rigorous studies of cutting-edge technology used to eradicate XOCs and their presence in bathroom greywater. The present review provides a comprehensive examination of current methodologies used for removing XOCs by photocatalysis of green nanoparticles. It was appeared that zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have high efficiency (99%) in photocatalysis process. Green synthesis provides proven processes that do not require dangerous chemicals or expensive equipment, making photocatalysis a potential solution for the status quo. XOCs residue was decomposed, and pollutants were eliminated with varied degrees of efficiency using green synthesis ZnO nanoparticles. It is hypothesized that the utilization of photocatalysis can create a greywater treatment system capable of degrading the toxic XOCs in greywater while increasing the pace of production. Hence, this review will be beneficial in improving greywater quality and photocatalysis using green nanoparticles can be an immediate platform in solving the issue regarding the existence of XOCs in greywater in Malaysia. Researchers in the future may benefit from focusing on optimizing photocatalytic degradation using green-synthesis ZnO. It might also help with the creativity and productivity of the next generation of authoritative concerns, notably water conservation.

Green Synthesis, Characterization and Bioactivity of Mangifera indica Seed-Wrapped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

In the realm of nanoparticles, metal-based nanoparticles have traditionally been regarded as the pioneering category. Compared to other nanoparticles, zinc oxide nanoparticles have several advantages, including optical and biological properties, which provide them a significant competitive advantage in clinical and biological applications. In the current investigation, we used an aqueous Mangifera indica seed extract to synthesize nanoparticles of zinc oxide (ZnO NPs). UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, atomic force spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the synthesized ZnO NPs. The nanoparticles were assessed for their potential to inhibit bacterial growth and protect cells from free radical damage. According to the current study's findings, zinc oxide nanoparticles that had been modified with the aid of mango seeds were very efficient in preventing the development of the tested bacteria and were also powerful antioxidants.

Chitosan functionalized bismuth oxychloride/zinc oxide nanocomposite for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of Congo red

The industrial discharge of dye pollutant contaminated wastewater is the major cause of water and soil pollution. Photocatalysis is a promising and green remediation technology, which has received widespread attention in the remediation of hazardous dyes from aqueous environment and convert them into harmless compounds. Herein, we report the synthesis of chitosan (CS) functionalized bismuth oxychloride/zinc oxide (BiOCl/ZnO) nanocomposite by a modified hydrothermal route. The physiochemical characterization revealed that the synthesized nanocomposite have crystalline, agglomerated spherical along with rod shaped morphology and size range from 35 to 160 nm. FTIR peaks at 825, 727, 662 and 622 cm^-1 specified the presence of BiO and ZnO bonds, whereas peak at 1635 cm^-1 revealed the existence of amine groups which confirms the presence of CS in the synthesized CS-BiOCl/ZnO nanocomposite. Catalytic property of synthesized nanocomposite was evaluated by the degradation of Congo red (CR) under UV-light irradiation. CR dye degradation percentage was found to be 93 % within a short period of 40 min by utilizing UV-light. Furthermore, reusability of CS-BiOCl/ZnO photocatalyst was also investigated, and it remained significant photocatalytic activity after three consecutive cycles. Hence, the results obtained in this study revealed that CS-BiOCl/ZnO nanocomposite can be used as a potential photocatalyst to remediate organic pollutants in various industries.

Plant and Microbial Approaches as Green Methods for the Synthesis of Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Applications, and Future Perspectives

The unique biological and physicochemical characteristics of biogenic (green-synthesized) nanomaterials (NMs) have attracted significant interest in different fields, with applications in the agrochemical, food, medication delivery, cosmetics, cellular imaging, and biomedical industries. To synthesize biogenic nanomaterials, green synthesis techniques use microorganisms, plant extracts, or proteins as bio-capping and bio-reducing agents and their role as bio-nanofactories for material synthesis at the nanoscale size. Green chemistry is environmentally benign, biocompatible, nontoxic, and economically effective. By taking into account the findings from recent investigations, we shed light on the most recent developments in the green synthesis of nanomaterials using different types of microbes and plants. Additionally, we cover different applications of green-synthesized nanomaterials in the food and textile industries, water treatment, and biomedical applications. Furthermore, we discuss the future perspectives of the green synthesis of nanomaterials to advance their production and applications.

Metal nanoparticles produced by plants with antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a pathogenic bacteria that causes a variety of potentially fatal infections. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of S. aureus has made treatment even more difficult. In recent years, nanoparticles have been used as an alternative therapeutic agent for S. aureus infections. Among various methods for the synthesis of nanoparticles, the method utilizing plant extracts from different parts of a plant, such as root, stem, leaf, flower, seeds, etc. is gaining widespread usage. Phytochemicals present in plant extract are an inexpensive, eco-friendly, natural material that act as reducing and stabilization agent for the nanoparticle synthesis. The utilization of plant-fabricated nanoparticles against S. aureus is currently in trend. The current review discusses recent findings in the therapeutic application of phytofabricated metal-based nanoparticles against Staphylococcus aureus.

The mechanism of metal-based antibacterial materials and the progress of food packaging applications: A review

Food packages have been detected carrying novel coronavirus in multi-locations since the outbreak of COVID-19, causing major concern in the field of food safety. Metal-based supported materials are widely used for sterilization due to their excellent antibacterial properties as well as low biological resistance. As the principal part of antibacterial materials, the active component, commonly referred to Ag, Cu, Zn, etc., plays the main role in inhibiting and killing pathogenic microorganisms by destroying the structure of cells. As another composition of metal-based antibacterial materials, the carrier could support and disperse the active component, which on one hand, could effectively decrease the usage amount of active component, on the other hand, could be processed into various forms to broaden the application range of antibacterial materials. Different from other metal-based antibacterial reviews, in order to highlight the detailed function of various carriers, we divided the carriers into biocompatible and adsorptable types and discussed their different antibacterial effects. Moreover, a novel substitution antibacterial mechanism was proposed. The coating and shaping techniques of metal-based antibacterial materials as well as their applications in food storage at ambient and low temperatures are also comprehensively summarized. This review aims to provide a theoretical basis and reference for researchers in this field to develop new metal-based antibacterial materials.

Applications of nanotechnology in smart textile industry: A critical review

Background

In recent years, nanotechnology has been playing an important role in designing smart fabrics. Nanomaterials have been employed to introduce in a sustainable manner, antimicrobial, ultraviolet resistant, electrically conductive, optical, hydrophobic and flame-retardant properties into textiles and garments. Nanomaterial based smart devices are now also being integrated with the textiles so as to perform various functions such as energy harvesting and storage, sensing, drug release and optics. These advancements have found wide applications in the fashion industry and are being developed for wider use in defence, healthcare and on-body energy harnessing applications.

Aim of review

The objective of this work is to provide an insight into the current trends of using nanotechnology in the modern textile industries and to inspire and anticipate further research in this field. This review provides an overview of the most current advances concerning on-body electronics research and the wonders which could be realized by nanomaterials in modern textiles in terms of total energy reliance on our clothes.

Key scientific concepts of review

The work underlines the various methods and techniques for the functionalization of nanomaterials and their integration into textiles with an emphasis on cost-effectiveness, comfort, wearability, energy conversion efficiency and eco-sustainability. The most recent trends of developing various nanogenerators, supercapacitors and photoelectronic devices on the fabric are highlighted, with special emphasis on the efficiency and wearability of the textile. The potential nanotoxicity associated with the processed textiles due to the tendency of these nanomaterials to leach into the environment along with possible remediation measures are also discussed. Finally, the future outlook regarding progress in the integration of smart nano-devices on textile fabrics is provided.

Exploring the Journey of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) toward Biomedical Applications

The field of nanotechnology is concerned with the creation and application of materials having a nanoscale spatial dimensioning. Having a considerable surface area to volume ratio, nanoparticles have particularly unique properties. Several chemical and physical strategies have been used to prepare zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs). Still, biological methods using green or natural routes in various underlying substances (e.g., plant extracts, enzymes, and microorganisms) can be more environmentally friendly and cost-effective than chemical and/or physical methods in the long run. ZnO-NPs are now being studied as antibacterial agents in nanoscale and microscale formulations. The purpose of this study is to analyze the prevalent traditional method of generating ZnO-NPs, as well as its harmful side effects, and how it might be addressed utilizing an eco-friendly green approach. The study's primary focus is on the potential biomedical applications of green synthesized ZnO-NPs. Biocompatibility and biomedical qualities have been improved in green-synthesized ZnO-NPs over their traditionally produced counterparts, making them excellent antibacterial and cancer-fighting drugs. Additionally, these ZnO-NPs are beneficial when combined with the healing processes of wounds and biosensing components to trace small portions of biomarkers linked with various disorders. It has also been discovered that ZnO-NPs can distribute and sense drugs. Green-synthesized ZnO-NPs are compared to traditionally synthesized ones in this review, which shows that they have outstanding potential as a potent biological agent, as well as related hazardous properties.

Effect of Al and Mg Doping on Reducing Gases Detection of ZnO Nanoparticles

In this work, the main objective is to enhance the gas sensing capability through investigating the effect of Al and Mg doping on ZnO based sensors. ZnO, Mg1% doped ZnO, Al5% doped ZnO and (Al5%, Mg1%) co-doped ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by a modified sol-gel method. The structural characterization showed the hexagonal crystalline structure of the prepared samples. Morphological characterizations confirmed the nanometric sizes of the NPs (27–57 nm) and elemental composition investigation proved the existence of Al and Mg with low concentrations. The optical characterization showed the high absorbance of the synthesized samples in the UV range. The gas sensing performances of the synthesized samples, prepared in the form of thick films, were investigated. Sensing tests demonstrated the high influence of the Al and Mg on the sensing performances towards H2 and CO gas, respectively. The 5A1MZO-based sensor exhibits high sensitivity and low detection limits to H2 (<2 ppm) and CO (<1 ppm). It showed a response around 70 (at 250 °C) towards 2000 ppm H2 and 2 (at 250 °C) towards CO.

Biogenic ZnO Nanoparticles Synthesized from Origanum vulgare Abrogates Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Formation in Opportunistic Pathogen Chromobacterium violaceum

This study presents an inexpensive, eco-friendly, and simple green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles using Origanum vulgare extract. These nanoparticles are non-hazardous, environmentally friendly, and cheaper than other methods of biosynthesis. Ongoing research determines the role of phytochemicals in the fabrication and biosynthesis of ZnO NPs and their role in antibacterial activity and biomedical applications. Characterizations by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), diffuse reflectance UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) determine the successful biosynthesis of ZnO NPs. Meanwhile, TEM and X-ray diffraction studies approximated the spherical morphology and crystalline nature of biosynthesized ZnO NPs of nano size in the range of 20-30 nm. The global increase in drug resistance necessitates the search for new drugs with different mechanisms of action. Quorum sensing (QS), a cell-to-cell communication, has gained attention as an emerging drug target. It controls numerous biochemical processes in bacteria, which are essential for their survival and pathogenicity. The potential of nanomedicines has also been tested to synthesize new antibiotics to tackle drug resistance. ZnO NPs were explored for their antibacterial, antiquorum sensing, and antibiofilm activities with a bioreporter strain of Chromobacterium violaceum. Susceptibility testing results indicated the potential antibacterial activity of ZnO NPs with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 4 µg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 16 µg/mL. Antiquorum-sensing assays revealed that these nanoparticles inhibit quorum sensing with minimum antiquorum sensing activity (MQSIC) of 1 µg/mL, without causing any bacterial growth inhibition. In addition, ZnO NPs inhibit biofilm formation at inhibitory and higher concentrations. RT-qPCR results supported the downregulation of the quorum sensing genes when C. violaceum was treated with ZnO NPs. The outcomes of this study are promising with regard to the biofilm and quorum sensing, emphasizing the potential applications of ZnO NPs against bacterial communication and biofilm formation.

Bio-inspired ZnO NPs synthesized from Citrus sinensis peels extract for Congo red removal from textile wastewater via photocatalysis: Optimization, mechanisms, techno-economic analysis

Textile industry is one of the most environmental unfriendly industrial processes due to the massive generation of colored wastewater contaminated with dyes and other chemical auxiliaries. These contaminants are known to have undesirable consequences to ecosystem. The present study investigated the best operating parameters for the removal of congo red (CR, as the model for dye wastewater) by orange peels extract biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) via photocatalysis in an aqueous solution. The response surface methodology (RSM) with ZnO NPs loadings (0.05-0.20 g), pH (3.00-11.00), and initial CR concentration (5-20 ppm) were used for the optimization process. The applicability of ZnO NPs in the dye wastewater treatment was evaluated based on the techno-economic analysis (TEA). ZnO NPs exhibited hexagonal wurtzite structure with = C-H, C-O, -C-O-C, CC, O-H as the main functional groups. The maximum degradation of CR was more than 96% with 0.171 g of ZnO NPs, at pH 6.43 and 5 ppm of CR and 90% of the R² coefficient. The specific cost of ZnO NPs production is USD 20.25 per kg. These findings indicated that the biosynthesized ZnO NPs with orange peels extract provides alternative method for treating dye wastewater.

Novel Green In Situ Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles on Cotton Using Pomegranate Peel Extract

This work presents the novel and entirely green in situ synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NP) on cotton fabric. Pomegranate peel extract was used as a reducing agent and wood ash extract was used as an alkali source for the formation of ZnO-NP from zinc acetate. Four different synthesis methods, which varied in drying between immersion of fabric in the active solutions for synthesis and the use of padding and ultrasonication, were investigated to evaluate the most suitable one to achieve excellent ultraviolet (UV) protective properties of the functionalized textile. For comparison, the cotton fabrics were also functionalized with each active solution separately or in a combination of two (i.e., Zn-acetate and plant extract). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) analysis, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) confirm the successful formation of ZnO-NP on cotton. Among the synthesis methods, the method that included continuous drying of the samples between immersion in the active solutions for synthesis (Method 4) was found to be the most suitable to deliver uniformly impregnated cotton fibers with numerous small ZnO wurtzite structured crystals and excellent UV protection, with a UV protection factor of 154.0. This research presents an example of a green circular economy where a bio-waste material can be used to produce ZnO-NP directly on cotton at low temperatures and short treatment times without the addition of chemicals and enables the production of cellulosic fabrics with excellent UV protection.

Green synthesis of single phase hausmannite Mn3O4 nanoparticles via Aspalathus linearis natural extract

Abstract

Nowadays, green synthesis of nanoparticles using plant precursors has been extensively studied. However, less attention has been given to Mn3O4. This contribution validates the synthesis of single-phase Hausmannite Mn3O4 nanoparticles by a green approach without using any standard acid/base compounds, surfactants, and organic/inorganic dissolving agents. The chemical chelation of the Mn precursor was performed via bioactive compounds of the Aspalathus Linearis’ extract, an African indigenous plant. Annealing at 400 °C for ~ 1 h was required to crystallize the small amorphous nanoparticles with an initial bimodal size distribution peaking at $$\left\langle {\phi_{1} } \right\rangle$$ ϕ 1  ~ 4.21 nm and $$\left\langle {\phi_{2} } \right\rangle$$ ϕ 2  ~ 8.51 nm respectively. Such annealing lead to increase in the diameter of the nanoparticles from 17 to 28 nm.The morphological, structural, vibrational, surface, and photoluminescence properties of the single-phase Hausmannite nanoparticles were comprehensively investigated by High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy(HRTEM),Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Raman and X-rays Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), spectroscopy as well as room temperature photoluminescence. Structural and morphological investigations revealed the formation of quasi-spherical nanoparticles having a single phase Hausmannite Mn3O4 crystal structure. XPS results also validated the XRD results about the formation of Hausmannite Mn3O4 nanoparticles. Raman investigations allowed a crystal-clear distinction between the Mn3O4 nature of the nanoparticles from the potential γ -Mn2O3 phase as both phases belong to the same space group and both assume tetragonally-distorted cubic lattices of nearly similar dimensions. The optical studies of the single phase Hausmannite crystalline nanoparticles exhibited a broad photoluminescence in the spectral range of 300–700 nm, which is ideal for emission devices.

Graphic abstract

Green synthesis of nickel oxide nanoparticles using leaf extract of Berberis balochistanica: Characterization, and diverse biological applications

In current report, nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiONPs) were synthesized using leaf extract of Berberis balochistanica (BB) an endemic medicinal plant. The BB leaves extract act as a strong reducing, stabilizing, and capping agent in the synthesis of BB@NiONPs. Further, BB@NiONPs were characterized using Uv-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and average size was calculated ~21.7 nm). Multiple in vitro biological activities were performed to determine their therapeutic potentials. The BB@NiONPs showed strong antioxidant activities in term of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) with scavenging potential of 69.98 and 59.59% at 200 μg/ml, respectively. The antibacterial and antifungal testes were examined using different bacterial and fungal strains and dose-dependent inhibition response was reported. Laterally, cytotoxic and phytotoxic activities were studied using brine shrimp and radish seeds. The result determined potential cytotoxic activity with LD₅₀ value (49.10 μg/ml) and outstanding stimulatory effect of BB@NiONPs on seed germination at lower concentrations as compared to control. Overall, result concluded that biosynthesis of NiONPs using leaf extracts of Berberis balochistanica is cheap, easy, and safe method and could be used in biomedical and agriculture field as nanomedicine and nano fertilizer.

Sono-synthesis approach improves anticancer activity of ZnO nanoparticles: reactive oxygen species depletion for killing human osteosarcoma cells

Aim: To investigate the effect of ultrasound during the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) on their anticancer activity. Materials & methods: ZnO NPs were synthesized in the presence and absence of ultrasonic irradiation. Biological tests were performed on human osteosarcoma cancer cells (Saos-2). Results: The sono-synthesized sample indicated higher cytotoxicity than the conventional one. (IC₅₀ = 16.48 ± 0.41 μg/ml for sonochemical ZnO; 26.96 ± 0.33 μg/ml for conventional ZnO). Both sonochemical and conventional samples acted like antioxidants and reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species level. This reduction was more significant in cells treated with the sono-synthesized sample. The sono-synthesized ZnO NPs showed more tumor selectivity than the conventional sample. Conclusion: Sono-synthesis of ZnO NPs by a bath sonicator could improve their anticancer activity.

Synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles by chemical and green synthesis methods and their multifaceted properties

In this present work, Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) successfully synthesized using the chemical as well as the green synthesis routine. The ethanol provoked the chemical reduction of ions. In the green synthesis, jasmine flower extract was used as a reducing and stabilizing agent because it contains alkaloids, coumarins, flavonoids. The Rutile phase of TiO2 NPs with an average crystalline size of 31–42 nm was revealed from the XRD pattern. From the UV–Visible spectroscopy, the optically active region of TiO2 NPs at 385 nm represents the visible region spectrum. The Ti–O–Ti and Ti–O vibration bond formation confirms the formation of TiO2 NPs. The SEM image of TiO2 NPs reveals that the spherical shaped NPs with randomly arranged manner. The obtained results have revealed that the property of TiO2 nanoparticles was similar in both processes. The Photodegradation of methylene blue dye was investigated and resulted in the maximum degradation efficiency of 92% is achieved at 120 min of irradiation. The Photodegradation study shows the biosynthesized TiO2 NPs exhibits a higher degradation efficiency compared to chemically synthesized TiO2 NPs. The antibacterial activity of prepared TiO2 NP’s was studied using grams-positive and gram-negative strains. The biological activities of green synthesized TiO2 NPs are enhanced compared to the chemically synthesized TiO2 NPs. Hence the degradation efficiency and zone inhibition layer indicate that the prepared TiO2 NPs are the potential candidate for environmental and biomedical applications.

Graphic abstract

Effective Inclusion of Sizable Amounts of Mo within TiO2 Nanoparticles Can Be Obtained by Reverse Micelle Sol-Gel Synthesis

Six Mo/TiO2 samples (with 0, 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10 wt % Mo nominal contents) were obtained by reverse micelle sol-gel synthesis, followed by calcination at 500 °C. The samples were characterized by means of powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), quantitative phase analysis as obtained by Rietveld refinement, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, N2 adsorption/desorption at -196 °C, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and diffuse reflectance (DR) UV-vis spectroscopy. As a whole, the adopted characterization techniques showed the inclusion of a sizeable Mo amount, without the segregation of any MoO x phase. Specifically, PXRD showed the occurrence of anatase and brookite with all the studied samples; notwithstanding the mild calcination temperature, the formation of rutile occurred at Mo wt % ≥2.5 likely due to the presence of brookite favoring, in turn, anatase to rutile transition. DR UV-vis and XP spectroscopies allowed determining the samples' band gap energy (E g) and valence band energy, respectively, from which the conduction band energy was calculated; and the observed E g value increase at 10 wt % Mo was ascribed to the Moss-Burstein effect.

Textiles Functionalized with ZnO Nanoparticles Obtained by Chemical and Green Synthesis Protocols: Evaluation of the Type of Textile and Resistance to UV Radiation

The study evaluates five types of commercial textiles with different cotton and polyester contents widely used in the garment industry. These textile samples have been subjected to treatment by the exhaustion method using zinc oxide nanoparticles (NP ZnO) (textile functionalization) with the aim of improving their efficiency in blocking UV radiation. The ZnO nanoparticles have been obtained by two methods: The green or also called biosynthesis (using the extract of Coriandrum sativum as an organic reducing agent), and the chemical method (using NaOH as an inorganic reducing agent). The results related to the green method show having achieved a defined geometric configuration with an average size of 97.77 nm (SD: 9.53). On the contrary, the nanostructures obtained by the chemical method show pentagonal configurations with average sizes of 113 nm (SD: 6.72). The textiles functionalized with NP ZnO obtained by biosynthesis showed a better efficiency in blocking ultraviolet radiation (UV).

Efficient sucrose-derived mesoporous carbon sphere electrodes with enhanced hydrophilicity for water capacitive deionization at low cell voltages

Mesoporous carbon spheres synthesized by a hard template approach. Low contact angle and better hydrophilicity. MCS electrodes can desalinate water at a low cell voltage of 0.8 V.

Hetta H, Shaheen TI. Endophytic Streptomyces laurentii Mediated Green Synthesis of Ag-NPs with Antibacterial and Anticancer Properties for Developing Functional Textile Fabric Properties

Improvement of the medical textile industry has received more attention recently, especially with widespread of microbial and viral infections. Medical textiles with new properties, such as bacterial pathogens self-cleaning, have been explored with nanotechnology. In this study, an endophytic actinomycetes strain of Streptomyces laurentii R-1 was isolated from the roots of the medicinal plant Achillea fragrantissima. This is used as a catalyst for the mediated biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) for applications in the textile industry. The biosynthesized Ag-NPs were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), which confirmed the successful formation of crystalline, spherical metal nanoparticles. The biosynthesized Ag-NPs exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Our data elucidated that the biosynthesized Ag-NPs had a highly cytotoxic effect against the cancerous caco-2 cell line. The selected safe dose of Ag-NPs for loading on cotton fabrics was 100 ppm, regarding their antibacterial activity and safe cytotoxic efficacy. Interestingly, scanning electron microscope connected with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) of loaded cotton fabrics demonstrated the smooth distribution of Ag-NPs on treated fabrics. The obtained results highlighted the broad-spectrum activity of nano-finished fabrics against pathogenic bacteria, even after 5 and 10 washing cycles. This study contributes a suitable guide for the performance of green synthesized NPs for utilization in different biotechnological sectors.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa antibacterial textile cotton fiber construction based on ZnO-TiO2 nanorods template

An alternative method of synthesizing ZnO–TiO₂ nanorods is through route precipitation and sintering at 600 °C. In this study, the introduction of Ti into Zn in the molar ratio Ti:Zn (1:3) produced a composite ZnO-Low TiO₂ (ZnO-LTiO₂) while 1:1 produced ZnO-High TiO₂ (ZnO–HTiO₂). The effect of the Ti introduced on the anti-bacterial properties of ZnO–TiO₂ nanorods was investigated with the product structure characterized by XRD and the optimal intensity at 2θ: 31.72°, 34.37°, 36.19° showed a Wurzite structure and a crystal size of 35.8–41.5 nm. The average pore diameters for ZnO-LTiO₂ and ZnO–HTiO₂ were around 5.159 nm and 6.828 nm while the surface areas were 15.692 m²/g and 15.421 m²/g respectively. The anti-bacterial textile fiber construction was prepared using dip-spin coating with the application of an adipic acid crosslinker for 6 h and stable coating up to 10 times washing. The improvement of Pseudomonasaeruginosa (Pa) antibacterial properties in the textiles with coating had an inhibition zone of 20.5–25.0 mm and 16.2 mm without the coating. The elements of the cotton fiber construction include C at 54.60%, O at 40.89%, Ti at 0.81% and Zn at 2.60% while the TG-DTA analysis conducted showed an increase in the heat stability of the textile fibers to a temperature of 400°C, after which the textiles were modified by coating ZnO–TiO₂ nanorods. The findings of this research could be successfully applied to improve the antibacterial properties of textiles.