GREEN SYNTHESIS OF ZINC OXIDE NANOPARTICLES USING ALOE VERA: A STUDY ON OPTICAL PROPERTIES AND PHOTOCATALYTIC ACTIVITY

The emergence of green synthesis provides an environmentally conscious alternative to conventional methods in the pursuit of sustainable nanotechnology. Exploring this environmentally friendly territory, our research reveals the fascinating realm of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), which are made using the botanical expertise of Aloe barbadensis miller, also referred to as aloe vera. This work sets out to investigate the optical properties and photocatalytic capabilities of these biosynthesized nanoparticles with an emphasis on their potential use in the methylene blue (MB) degradation process. Green synthesis, a meticulous blend of botanical expertise and analytical precision, initiates with the careful synthesis of NPs using Aloe barbadensis miller leaves as reducing agent. The resultant Aloe Vera-assisted ZnO nanoparticles (AL-ZnO) exhibit significant optical properties, as unveiled by UV-vis spectroscopy, indicating a semiconductor behavior with an absorption peak at 310 nm. Tauc's equation reveals a bandgap energy of 4.37 eV, indicating direct electronic transitions within the AL-ZnO NPs. The particle size of 5.86nm was determined through a hyperbolic model. AL-ZnO showcases remarkable catalytic prowess in photocatalysis, achieving complete methylene blue degradation under soft sunlight within 105 minutes. This positions Aloe Vera-assisted ZnO NPs as potent catalysts for eco-friendly water treatment, marking a significant stride in green synthesis. The study also delves into the optical attributes of Al-doped ZnO nanoparticles, uncovering robust light-refracting capabilities and high optical conductivity. This positions them as ideal candidates for applications in solar cells and light-emitting devices, contributing to advancements in renewable energy technologies. In essence, the research establishes Aloe Vera-assisted ZnO NPs as multifaceted, powerful catalysts with significant implications for both environmentally conscious water treatment and the broader domain of green synthesis.