Green Synthesis, Optimization, and Characterization of CuO Nanoparticles Using <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i> Leaf Extract
Green synthesis of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles offers a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical methods that often involve toxic reagents and harsh conditions. This study investigates the use of <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i>, an invasive species in Sri Lanka, as a bioreducta...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-08-01
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| Series: | Nanomaterials |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2079-4991/15/15/1203 |
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| Summary: | Green synthesis of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles offers a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical methods that often involve toxic reagents and harsh conditions. This study investigates the use of <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i>, an invasive species in Sri Lanka, as a bioreductant for the eco-friendly fabrication of CuO nanoparticles. Using copper sulfate (CuSO<sub>4</sub>·5H<sub>2</sub>O) as a precursor, eight treatments were conducted by varying precursor concentration, temperature, and reaction time to determine optimal conditions. A visible color change in the reaction mixture initially indicated nanoparticle formation. Among all the conditions, treatment T4 (5 mM CuSO<sub>4</sub>, 80 °C, 2 h) yielded the most favorable results in terms of stability, morphology, and crystallinity. UV-Vis spectroscopic analysis confirmed the synthesis, with absorbance peaks between 265 and 285 nm. FTIR analysis revealed organic functional groups and characteristic metal–oxygen vibrations in the fingerprint region (500–650 cm<sup>−1</sup>), confirming formation. SEM imaging showed that particles were mainly spherical to polygonal, averaging 125–150 nm. However, dynamic light scattering showed larger diameters (~240 nm) due to surface capping agents. Zeta potential values ranged from −16.0 to −28.0 mV, indicating stability. XRD data revealed partial crystallinity with CuO-specific peaks. These findings support the potential of <i>T. diversifolia</i> in green nanoparticle synthesis, suggesting a low-cost, eco-conscious strategy for future applications. |
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| ISSN: | 2079-4991 |