Bio-inspired CuO nanoparticles via Crocus sativus leaf extract: Sol–gel fabrication and functional applications

This study demonstrates the synthesis of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles using a leaf extract from Crocus sativus via the Sol-gel method, focusing on their photocatalytic and antioxidant activities. Characterization techniques, including EDX, SEM, FT-IR, XRD, and UV–visible spectroscopy, confirmed the crystalline nature and morphology of the nanoparticles, which exhibited heavy agglomeration and porous characteristics typical of green synthesis. The photocatalytic potential was assessed through the degradation of methylene blue dye (97%) under optimal conditions: an initial concentration of 20 ppm, 20 mg of CuO nanoparticles, and 120 min of sunlight exposure. Antioxidant activity was evaluated at concentrations ranging from 20 to 100 µg/mL, showing a significant increase in scavenging activity from 49.60% to 86.73%. The synthesized CuO nanoparticles exhibit promising photocatalytic and antioxidant properties, indicating their potential for environmental remediation and medicinal applications.