Green synthesis, characterisation, and photocatalytic activity of manganese dioxide nanoparticles

In this work, a simple, efficient and eco-friendly procedure for the green synthesis of manganese dioxide nanoparticles (MnO2 NPs) by Yucca gloriosa leaf extract is described. The MnO2 NPs were synthesised using Y. gloriosa leaf extract and curcumin as reducing and stabilising agents, respectively. Fourier-transform infrared spectra revealed the involvement of the plant extract in the formation of MnO2 NPs. The ultraviolet–visible absorption spectra of the synthesised MnO2 NPs exhibited absorption peaks at 410 nm, which were attributed to the band gap of the MnO2 NPs. Crystal phase identification of the MnO2 NPs was characterised by X-ray diffraction analysis and the formation of crystalline MnO2 NPs has been confirmed. Also, the X-ray diffraction pattern displayed that the average size of MnO2 NPs was about 80 nm. Furthermore, field emission scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that the synthesised MnO2 NPs have a spherical shape. MnO2 NPs have photocatalytic activities for the dye degradation in the visible light region. The photocatalytic activities for the dye degradation of MnO2 NPs were evaluated using Acid Orange as an organic contaminant.