Green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles using Platanus orientalis leaf extract for antifungal activity

In this report, aqueous phase green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticle utilizing Platanus orientalis is elucidated for the first time. The phytoconstituents of the P. orientails leaf extract serve a dual role as reducing and capping agent during the fabrication of iron oxide nanoparticles. The role of the leaf extract in the synthesis of iron oxide has been briefly demonstrated in this work. The tailored iron oxide particles were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering technique. Nonetheless, X-ray diffraction pattern reveals the mixed phase nature of the ensuing iron oxide, i.e. alpha-Fe2O3 and gamma-Fe2O3. The spherical oxide particles have an average diameter of 38 nm as determined from transmission electron microscopy. Infrared spectroscopy results confirmed the stabilization of iron oxide nanoparticles by the phytochemicals present in the leaf extract. Iron oxide nanoparticles show significant antifungal activity against Aspergilius niger and Mucor piriformis, employed as model fungi, but found to be more active toward M. piriformis.