Biosynthesized and chemically synthesized Ag/TiO2 nanocomposites: Effect of reaction parameters on synthesis using watermelon rind extract and comparative analysis

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Date
2024-07
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
elsevier
Abstract
This work synthesized Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite via an aqueous reduction method using a green and chemical reducing agent. Citrullus lanatus (watermelon) rind extract (WMRE) and sodium borohydride (NaBH4) were used as the reducing agents during green synthesis and chemical synthesis, respectively. During green synthesis, a pH of 12, a reaction time of 45 min, and an operating temperature of 100 °C yielded the best visible light activity. The biosynthesized and chemically-synthesized Ag/TiO2 were compared using UV–Vis spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive spectroscopy-scanning electron microscopy (EDS-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Synthesis using WMRE yielded spherical Ag nanoparticles modified on the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles. The Ag nanoparticles had enhanced monodispersity with an average diameter of 7.48 ± 4.06 nm. Therefore, the developed WMRE green synthesis method provides a simple, less chemical-intensive, and effective alternative to chemical synthesis.
Description
Keywords
Citation
Gathiru, M. M., Obuya, E., Noah, N. M., & Masika, E. (n.d.). Biosynthesized and chemically synthesized Ag/TiO₂ nanocomposites: Effect of reaction parameters on synthesis using watermelon rind extract and comparative analysis.