Catalytic reduction in 4-nitrophenol using Actinodaphne madraspatana Bedd leaves-mediated palladium nanoparticles

There is a growing demand for the development of non-toxic, cost-effective, and environmentally benign green synthetic strategy for the production of metal nanoparticles. Herein, the authors have reported Actinodaphne madraspatana Bedd (AMB) leaves as the bioreducing agent for the synthesis of palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) and its catalytic activity was evaluated for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol with undisruptive effect on human health and environment. The broad and continuous absorbance spectrum obtained in the UV-visible region indicated the formation of PdNPs. The synthesized PdNPs were found to be crystalline, spherical, and quasi-spherical in shape with an average particle size of 13nm was confirmed by X-ray diffractometer and transmission electron microscope. Fourier transform infrared spectra revealed the active photo constituents present in the aqueous extract of AMB involved in the bioreduction of palladium ions to PdNPs. The catalytic activity of biosynthesized PdNPs was demonstrated for the reduction of 4-NP via electron-relay process. Also, the influential parameters such as catalyst dosage, concentration of 4-NP, and sodium borohydride were studied in detail. From the present study, PdNPs were found to be a potential nanocatalyst for nitro compound reduction and also for environmental remediation of wastewater effluents from industries.