In a significant stride towards sustainable material synthesis, researchers have harnessed the power of nature to create nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO NPs) with promising antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. This eco-friendly approach, detailed in a recent study published in ‘Results in Materials’ (known in English as ‘Materials Outcomes’), utilizes the seed extract of Abrus precatorius, commonly known as the rosary pea, as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent. The lead author, Surendiran Mohan from the Department of Chemistry at Vinayaka Mission’s Chennai Campus in India, explains, “Our goal was to develop a green synthesis method that not only reduces the environmental impact but also enhances the biological functionality of NiO NPs.”
The study reveals that the synthesized NiO NPs exhibit dose-dependent antioxidant activity, although their efficiency was lower than that of ascorbic acid. However, the nanoparticles showed strong antimicrobial potential, particularly against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli, with activity increasing up to a concentration of 200 μg/mL. This finding is crucial for the energy sector, where microbial contamination can lead to significant losses and maintenance challenges. “The antimicrobial properties of these nanoparticles could be a game-changer in preventing biofouling in energy infrastructure, such as pipelines and heat exchangers,” Mohan suggests.
The green synthesis method involves using ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) to characterize the nanoparticles. The SEM images revealed that the nanoparticles have nearly spherical to polyhedral morphologies and a tendency to agglomerate, typical of green synthesis. EDX confirmed the presence of nickel and oxygen as the major elements, validating the formation of NiO. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis showed an average particle size of 166.9 nm with a Poly Dispersity Index (PDI) of 0.340, indicating moderate uniformity. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed a weight loss of 20–25% due to organic decomposition, confirming the thermal stability and purity of the calcined NiO NPs.
The implications of this research extend beyond the energy sector. The eco-friendly synthesis of NiO NPs could revolutionize various industries, including pharmaceuticals, where antimicrobial agents are in high demand, especially against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. “The potential applications of these nanoparticles are vast,” Mohan notes. “From enhancing the shelf life of pharmaceutical products to improving the efficiency of energy systems, the possibilities are endless.”
As the world increasingly turns to sustainable solutions, this research highlights the importance of integrating natural processes into material synthesis. The use of Abrus precatorius seed extract not only reduces the environmental footprint but also enhances the biological functionality of NiO NPs. This study, published in ‘Results in Materials’, paves the way for future developments in green chemistry and nanotechnology, offering a glimpse into a more sustainable and efficient future.