Microwave-assisted green synthesis of nickel nanoparticles using Tinospora cordifolia stem extract and its application as a photocatalyst

Abstract

The synthesis of nanoparticles using environmental friendly methods has gained significant attention in recent years due to the growing concerns regarding the environmental impact of traditional synthetic techniques. Microwave-assisted green synthesis offers a promising solution by combining the advantages of microwave irradiation and green chemistry principles. The green approach utilizes eco-friendly precursors and reducing agents, such as plant extracts and natural polymers, to minimize the use of hazardous materials and reduces waste generation. In this study, nickel nanoparticles are formed using Tinospora cordifolia’s stem extract as a reducing agent and nickel nitrate hexahydrate as a reaction precursor. The UV-Vis analysis has confirmed their formation in the wavelength range between 200 nm and 800 nm, and the maximum wavelength is observed at 365 nm with an absorbance of 0.865. The SEM image confirms its topography with a large variation in the size, and its distribution varied in the range of 40-80 nm. Ni-NPs show 41.34% degradation of methylene blue and 28.9% of methyl orange. Low efficiency of photocatalytic activity has been observed due to higher concentration of dyes, shorter reaction time and lower concentration of plant mediated Nickel nanoparticles