Use of Uncaria tomentosa for synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles with photocatalytic properties

The development of technology led to the discovery of nanotechnology. Nanoparticles have been key for various applications, one example being environmental purification through photocatalysis. This manuscript presents the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles, taking advantage of the properties provided by Uncaria tomentosa for nanoparticle synthesis. The characterization results of the synthesized nanoparticles show that the organic contents of Uncaria tomentosa remain after the synthesis process. The nanoparticles formed in the wurtzite phase with a band gap of 2.56 eV and an average size of 28 nm. Photocatalytic tests showed degradation of MB dye in 150 min, MO in 30 min, and RB in 150 min.