Facile Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Mesquite Tree Leaves for Refinery Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

Green synthesis of nanoparticles has gained significant importance, and it has become the one of the most preferred synthesis methods. Mesquite or Prosopis juliflora is an aggressive, thorny tree is threatening the ecology and has a negative impact on the environment, and animal health as it absorbs nutrients from soil, prevents the water flow in aflaj. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from mesquite leaf extract by green extraction technique for the refinery wastewater treatment applications. The AgNP’s are characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy Dispersive X - Ray Analysis (EDX), UV-visible spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses to determine the functional groups, morphology, and elemental composition. The synthesized AgNP’s are utilized for the treatment of refinery wastewater by performing a series of experiments by varying the processing parameters (pH, mixing duration, agitation speed, and dosage of nanoparticles) and the optimum treatment conditions were established. This research aims to convert the mesquite tree leaves into a value added product, AgNP’s for the refinery wastewater treatment, thereby reduce its impact on the environment. Additionally, this research is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSD-6, clean water and sanitation) and also supports the Oman Vision 2040.