Eco-friendly Preparation and Characterization of Cu Nanoparticles using Citrus limon Fruits Extracts for Potential Water and Wastewater Remediation.

Abstract

In light of the sustainable benefits of green synthesis, the synthesis and stabilization of Cu nanoparticles [Cu NPs] using extracts from Citrus limon fruits were reported in this research work. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized using Transmission Electron Microscopy [TEM], Scanning Electron Microscopy/Electron Dispersive X-ray [SEM/EDX] analysis, X-Ray Diffraction analysis [XRD], Bruanner-Emmett-Teller [BET], and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy [FTIR] analysis. The TEM together with SEM micrograph shows the spherical shapes of the nanoparticles with the average size of ∼11.30 nm. The SEM micrograph illustrates rough surface and presence of heterogeneous cavities that can enhance adsorption. The XRD results reveals Face-Centered Cubic [FCC] crystal structure of the nanoparticles and the peak positions matches the JCPDS [Joint Committee on Powder Diffraction Standards] card No. 04-0836. BET reported specific surface area of 47.3382 m2/g, pore size of 3.174nm, and pore volume of 0.0215 cm3/g. The FTIR reveals Cu-O stretch, suggesting the formation of the Cu NPs. The presence of the hydroxyl [OH] groups was evident in the FTIR spectrum of the nanoparticles, which is good for surface functionality. The obtained results shows the green synthesis is an efficient method for preparation of Cu NPs for potential water and wastewater remediation.