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One-Pot Biosynthesis of Maghemite (γ-Fe<inf>2</inf>O<inf>3</inf>) Nanoparticles in Aqueous Extract of Ficus carica Fruit and Their Application for Antioxidant and 4-Nitrophenol Reduction

Abstract:

Abstract: Nowadays, iron oxide based nanomaterials are well known for their multifunctional properties and their applications in various fields. In this article, a simple, one pot and green method for the biosynthesis of single phase maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) nanoparticles using an aqueous fruit extract of Ficus carica were reported. A detailed spectroscopic and microscopic analysis based on UV–Vis, XRD, FTIR, TGA, DLS, TEM and SAED were used to establish the optical property, morphology, composition, purity, nature and other properties of the synthesized γ-Fe2O3 NPs. UV–Vis, FTIR and TGA analysis indicated the involvement of phytochemicals of Ficus carica fruits in nanoparticle synthesis and direct functionalization of nanoparticle surfaces. XRD pattern confirmed the purity and nature of well-crystallized γ-Fe2O3 NPs. DLS showed the average hydrodynamic size of γ-Fe2O3 NPs while, TEM micrographs confirmed the formation of spherical and 4–6 nm sized γ-Fe2O3 NPs. In addition, the γ-Fe2O3 NPs showed (a) free radical scavenging activity against DPPH and (b) catalytic activity for the reduction of 4-Nitrophenol in the presence of NaBH4. This biosynthetic method provided an advantageous pathway to fabricate bulk quantities of γ-Fe2O3 NPs and maybe extend their applications in different biotechnological applications. Graphic Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]