Bio Synthesis of Nanoparticles from Bio Waste and Its Application on Anti Corrosion, Antifungal and Paint Applications

This study demonstrates the green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using pomegranate and orange peel extracts, with pomegranate proving more effective based on a UV-Vis absorption peak at 390 nm. SEM and DLS analyses revealed nanoparticle sizes ranging from 100–250 nm and an average hydrodynamic diameter of 238.7 nm (PDI 0.296). FTIR confirmed the presence of phytochemical capping agents, while XRD validated a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The nanoparticles exhibited strong antifungal activity, with 100 µL of ZnO formulation producing inhibition zones of 12 mm and 15 mm against Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger, respectively. In corrosion resistance testing, ZnO-incorporated paint showed significantly less rust compared to normal paint after 10 days of salt spray exposure, and the nanoparticle spray visibly reduced rust within 5 minutes. These findings highlight the potential of fruit peel-derived ZnO nanoparticles as eco-friendly, multifunctional agents for antifungal coatings and corrosion prevention, aligning with green chemistry and sustainable waste utilization practices. KEYWORDS: Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles, Green Synthesis, Antifungal Activity, Corrosion Resistance, Surface Protection.