Obtaining iron oxide nanoparticles by green synthesis using aqueous extract of leaves of matico (piper elongatum poir) (#1851)

Authors

Perez Moscoso, Arcil

Saavedra-Arancibia, Nicómedes

Perez Serrudo, Gonzalo Benito

Cruz-Yucra, Darío G.

Iglesias, José Enrique

Hinojosa-Padilla, Victor

Abstract

The green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONP) was carried out using an aqueous extract of Matico leaves, which acts as a reducing, protecting, and stabilizing agent in the synthesis process. The synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles were studied using the Plackett-Burman experimental design and characterized through X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), and Elemental Mapping. In the experimental analysis, the main influential variables in the process were determined: the mass of FeCl₃·6H₂O, the volume of the extract, the reaction time, and a secondary variable, which is temperature. The composition determined by X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry was found to be between 97,8283-99,9987%, indicating high purity and crystallization in the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄). SEM analysis revealed a heterogeneous formation of nanoparticles ranging from 50,50-131,74 nm in size, with an irregular spherical to ovoid shape, demonstrating the presence of nanoparticle agglomeration due to the magnetic fields of this material. SPM imaging confirmed the formation of nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 10,35-160 nm. EDS analysis determined that the obtained IONPs contained 73,8% iron and 24,6% oxygen in composition. The synthesized nanoparticles are expected to be a promising material for treating contaminated water (industrial wastewater, dye-polluted water), biomedical treatments, and applications in Chemical, Environmental, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering, as well as in agriculture, through a cost-effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly approach