Hydrothermally synthesized Cu-doped SnO2 nanoparticles: Dual functionality in photocatalytic degradation and fruit shelf life enhancement

Increase in antimicrobial resistance among pathogens and release of advanced pollutants with complex molecular structure into water, has lead to increase in fruit wastage and increased environmental pollution that needs to be tackled. In this research, Pure and Cu-doped SnO 2 nanoparticles were synthesized using hydrothermal approach by using varied Cu-dopant concentration (2%,4%,6%,8%). In order to address structural, morphological, vibrational and optical properties of the synthesized nanoparticles, different characterization techniques such as UV-Vis, PL, FTIR, XRD and SEM were carried out. 6%Cu-doped SnO 2 was found to have highest photocatalytic efficiency of 84.3% for MB dye and 58% for Ciprofloxacin. The optimal 6%Cu-doped SnO 2 was then applied to Vitis vinifera fruit as coating and shelf life analysis was performed for 5 days using different techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Total soluble solid and Titration acidity test. Cu-doped SnO 2 nanoparticles showed remarkable ability for shelf life enhancement of Vitis vinifera in comparison to untreated control. These findings thus demonstrates potential use of Cu-doped SnO 2 nanoparticles for shelf life enhancement of fruits by its incorporation in storage environment and its use as promising photo catalyst. • Investigated the changes in structural, optical, morphological, and photocatalytic properties of SnO₂ due to Cu Doping. • Band gap narrowed from 3.53 eV to 3.04 eV due to mid-gap transition states introduced by dopants. • Tested against methylene blue (MB) dye degradation and Optimized composition: Cu (6%) resulted 84& degradation • Efficient pharmaceutical activity as resulted 58% antimicrobial activity for Ciprofloxacin.