A green approach: Cinnamomum tamala-functionalized ZnO nanoparticles for efficient degradation of organic dyes

This study presents an innovative method for environmentally friendly synthesis, comprehensive characterization, and multifunctional evaluation of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) that have been bio-functionalized with phytochemicals derived from Cinnamomum tamala (CT). The study examines the distinctive characteristics of CT/ZnO NPs by employing an extensive range of spectroscopic methods and physicochemical analyses, such as field emission scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis. The X-ray diffraction analysis verifies the precise synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles, locating their hexagonal crystallite structure and crystallite size of 38.18 nm. The functionalization of ZnO by CT’s phytochemicals is illustrated by FTIR, whereas various architectural features are revealed by FESEM and HRTEM. The crystal structure is confirmed by electron diffraction patterns in a specific region. The formation of ZnO NPs is confirmed by the energy band gap (Eg) of 3.60 eV and the absorption peak at 265 nm. The catalytic performance is assessed by analysing the degradation of commercial Methylene Blue (MB). At a dose of 120 mg L⁻¹, CT/ZnO (dosage of 250 mg L⁻¹) achieved a removal efficiency of 94.17%. A pseudo-first-order kinetics model dictates the photodegradation process.