Metal oxide (Zinc oxide) Nanoparticles: Enhancing Photocatalytic and Antimicrobial function for Industrial wastewater treatment
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Abstract
Among various nanomaterials, zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles have gained considerable attention due to their exceptional physicochemical properties such as chemical stability, high surface area, and low toxicity. To break down organic pollutants and eliminate microbiological contaminants from industrial wastewater, this study looks into the photocatalytic and antibacterial properties of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. Hydrothermal synthesis was used to create ZnO nanoparticles using two protocols using two precursors: zinc acetate dihydrate and Zinc(II) Nitrate Hexahydrate, and produced particles of size 300±10 nm and 600±15 nm. XRD confirmed the desired phase with minor impurities, and particle sizes matched Scherer's formula calculations. SEM also showed clear structure of ZnO type 1 and ZnO type 2. We checked these nanoparticles for their efficiency in removing several bacterial and fungal isolates. Significant inhibitory zones were seen at a dose of 100 mg/L for both types when ZnO nanoparticles were tested against bacterial strains (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and fungal species (Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans). Additionally, photocatalytic degradation of phenol and methylene blue (MB) under UV light exposure was assessed for both types of nanoparticles. We noted ZnO NP type 1 performed better in removing microbial contaminants, whereas ZnO type 2 was more efficient in removing organic pollutants. These findings show that ZnO nanoparticles produced by hydrothermal methods can improve water quality efficiently by eliminating organic and microbial contaminants highlighting their potential for environmental remediation applications.