Abstract

Sana Mohd Salim Shaikh^1*, Manish Shamrao Hate² and Ramesh Chaughule³

This study investigates the synthesis, characterization, and use of Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) for degrading water sample from a common effluent treatment plant (WSCETP) and a specific industrial source (Water Sample from Padmaja Laboratories, abbreviated as WSPL). Zinc oxide nanoparticles were produced through a green microwave-assisted approach with Moringa Oleifera Lam and analysed using various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. UV-Visible spectroscopy identified a peak at 308 nm and a band gap of 3.06 eV. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy confirmed Zn-O stretching and various organic groups. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated a hexagonal wurtzite structure with a crystal size of 21 nm, while Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy revealed a uniform, spherical morphology, and high purity. Photocatalytic tests showed optimal Chemical Oxygen Demand reductions at 7.5 g/L for Water Sample from Common Effluent Treatment Plant and 10 g/L for Water Sample from Padmaja Laboratories, with pH values of 8.2 and 8.0, respectively. Recyclability tests demonstrated significant activity retention, with Chemical Oxygen Demand reductions of 18% and 62% after four cycles for Water Sample from Common Effluent Treatment Plant and Water Sample from Padmaja Laboratories, respectively. Zinc oxide nanoparticles are effective, recyclable, providing a cost-efficient method for industrial effluent treatment.

Chemical Oxygen Demand reduction; Catalyst recyclability; Green synthesis of Zinc oxide nanoparticles; Industrial wastewater treatment; Photocatalytic effluent degradation

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