Macaranga peltata Leaf Extract Mediated Green Synthesis of Iron Nanoparticles and Their Application in Organic Dye Removal

Abstract

This study presents an eco-friendly method for synthesizing iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) using Macaranga peltata leaf extract, evaluating their potential in degrading the organic dye methyl orange (MO). The synthesis exploits phytochemicals in the leaf extract as natural reducing and stabilizing agents. The synthesized FeNPs were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, and SEM, confirming amorphous structure and particle sizes ranging from 34–94 nm. Catalytic activity was evaluated via MO degradation experiments, achieving 85.16% efficiency within 200 minutes. The study demonstrates a sustainable solution for wastewater treatment through green nanotechnology.