Comprehensive Characterization of Algal-Based Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (ABIONPs) Using Freshwater Algae (Spirogyra and Zygnema Species), Naturally Collected from Mokhada Tahasil, Palghar District, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

This study looks at the eco-friendly synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (FeO-NPs) using filamentous freshwater algae, Spirogyra sp. and Zygnema sp. collected from Mokhada Tahasil, District Palghar, Maharashtra. The Algal extracts were used as reducing and stabilizing agents in the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles. The produced nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-Ray Diffraction. UV-Visible spectra of the samples showed the formation of nanoparticles with absorption in the range of 290 to 350 nm. SEM and TEM studies revealed the formation of mostly spherical to irregular shaped particles in the size range of 18 to 42 nm. It was observed that the nanoparticles synthesized using Spirogyra were smaller and more homogeneous in comparison to the nanoparticles synthesized using Zygnema. It can be concluded from study that freshwater algae can serve as excellent green biological resources for the eco-friendly and continuous synthesis of Iron oxide nanoparticles with potential use in environmental remediation and biomedical sciences.