Structure Elucidation and Potential for Environmental Remediation of a Novel PbO Nano Photocatalyst Mediated by <i>Cassia Auriculata Leave</i> Extract

ABSTRACT PbO nanoparticles were synthesized via a green route using Cassia auriculata leaf extract and evaluated for photocatalytic dye degradation. The eco‐friendly process yielded nanostructures with mixed phases, strong stability, and high efficiency toward cationic and anionic pollutants, offering promise for sustainable water treatment. Comprehensive characterization was performed using FTIR, SEM, TEM, UV–Vis, PL, and BET techniques. UV–Vis spectroscopy revealed distinct absorption bands, while PL spectra exhibited broad visible emission peaks associated with surface defects. FTIR analysis indicated functional groups originating from phytochemicals in the leaf extract, confirming their role in nanoparticle stabilization. SEM images demonstrated predominantly spherical and irregular sponge‐like morphologies. Photocatalytic studies showed that the PbO nanoparticles effectively degraded Crystal Violet (CV) and Alizarin Yellow R (AYR) dyes under UV irradiation. These findings highlight that Cassia auriculata–derived PbO nanoparticles are cost‐effective, environmentally benign photocatalysts with strong potential for sustainable water treatment applications.