Biosynthesis of PbO nanoparticles via Adhatoda vesica (Justicia adhatoda) leaves extract for antimicrobial and photocatalytic applications

Abstract

Research applications in biology and the environment can benefit greatly from nanoscience and nanotechnology. Aqueous leaf extract of Adhatoda vesica (AV) mediated the formation of lead oxide (PbO) nanoparticles in this study. A XRD analysis confirmed that the lead oxide nanoparticles (PbO NPs) synthesized from leaves extract have a crystalline structure. UV–vis spectroscopy study of colloidal PbO nanoparticles absorption revealed the greatest absorption bands, and the photoluminescence (PL) emission spectrum revealed a broad nature of visible emission peaks with high surface defects. By analyzing PbO nanoparticles using the fourier transform infrared method (FTIR), the leaf extract demonstrated the presence of functional peaks. It was evident from the SEM images that most of the PbO NPs had a spherical, irregular sponge-like shape. Additionally, the PbO nanostructures were tested for their antibacterial activity against Escherichia Coli, and a high level of antibacterial activity was observed, indicating their suitability for antimicrobial applications. PbO NPs have been evaluated for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye (MB) under UV irradiation and have produced indications that the synthesized material is suitable for photocatalytic degradation. The Adhatoda vesica is used as medicine and enhances lead oxide nanomaterials' antibacterial properties. The research is focused on focusing on environmental pollution control and treatment of different diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, tuberculosis, and other diseases through applications of Ayurveda, Siddha, Homeopathy, and Unani. A study based on these findings revealed that Adhatoda vesica (Justicia adhatoda) leaves extract can be utilized as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to producing lead oxide nanoparticles.