Green synthesis, characterization and economic evaluation of sulfur nanoparticles using Punica granatum peel extract

A green and sustainable approach for synthesizing sulfur nanoparticles using dried Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel powder as a natural capping and stabilizing agent was carried out in the present study. Sodium thiosulphate pentahydrate (Na 2 S 2 O 3 ·5H 2 O) served as the sulfur precursor, while phytochemicals in the peel extract facilitated nanoparticle formation under environmentally benign conditions. The synthesized sulfur nanoparticles were characterized using UV–visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, particle size analysis, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and zeta potential analysis. The nanoparticles exhibited characteristic UV absorption peaks at 228.8 and 238.4 nm, orthorhombic crystalline structure with a crystallite size of 23.94 nm and an average particle size of 50.5 nm. Morphological observations revealed irregular and network-like structures, while energy-dispersive X-ray confirmed sulfur rich nanoparticles. A zeta potential of − 29.5 mV indicated moderate colloidal stability. The raw material based cost analysis revealed that 100 g of sulfur nanoparticles could be produced at ₹ 1180, highlighting the economic feasibility of the process. These findings establish pomegranate peel waste as an efficient, low-cost and eco-friendly resource for the green synthesis of sulfur nanoparticles, highlighting their potential for future sustainable applications in agriculture, medicine and material science.