Green Synthesis of Zero‐Valent Tellurium Nanoparticles via <i>Acalypha indica</i> Leaf Extracts and Its Application for Photocatalytic Degradation of Safranin O Dye in Aqueous System

Abstract There is a significant influence that dye degradation has on wastewater treatment, which necessitates the development of innovative and long‐term solutions. In this study, zerovalent tellurium nanoparticles were successfully produced using green synthesis. This was accomplished with the assistance of an extract from the leaves of Acalypha indica , which is a naturally occurring capping and binding agent. Using cutting‐edge techniques for characterizations, such as UV–vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, BET, PL, zero potential, and X‐ray diffraction, the structural and optical properties of the nanocatalyst that was synthesized were validated. Both the SEM and TEM examinations revealed a porous, triangular form with an average size of 22 nm. The UV–vis spectrum showed a peak surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band at 634 nm. Within 180 min, the nanocatalyst was able to photodegrade the safranin O dye with an efficiency of 98.9%. This was accomplished in optimal pH and temperature conditions. According to these findings, tellurium nanoparticles that are produced by green chemistry are a great and environmentally friendly choice for the degradation of textile dyes. Furthermore, it suggests new possibilities for the treatment of wastewater over an extended period.