One-Pot Biosynthesis of Maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) Nanoparticles in Aqueous Extract of Ficus carica Fruit and Their Application for Antioxidant and 4-Nitrophenol Reduction

Nowadays, iron oxide based nanomaterials are well known for their multifunctional properties and their applications in various fields. In this article, a simple, one pot and green method for the biosynthesis of single phase maghemite (gamma-Fe2O3) nanoparticles using an aqueous fruit extract ofFicus caricawere reported. A detailed spectroscopic and microscopic analysis based on UV-Vis, XRD, FTIR, TGA, DLS, TEM and SAED were used to establish the optical property, morphology, composition, purity, nature and other properties of the synthesized gamma-Fe(2)O(3)NPs. UV-Vis, FTIR and TGA analysis indicated the involvement of phytochemicals ofFicus caricafruits in nanoparticle synthesis and direct functionalization of nanoparticle surfaces. XRD pattern confirmed the purity and nature of well-crystallized gamma-Fe(2)O(3)NPs. DLS showed the average hydrodynamic size of gamma-Fe(2)O(3)NPs while, TEM micrographs confirmed the formation of spherical and 4-6 nm sized gamma-Fe(2)O(3)NPs. In addition, the gamma-Fe(2)O(3)NPs showed (a) free radical scavenging activity against DPPH and (b) catalytic activity for the reduction of 4-Nitrophenol in the presence of NaBH4. This biosynthetic method provided an advantageous pathway to fabricate bulk quantities of gamma-Fe(2)O(3)NPs and maybe extend their applications in different biotechnological applications. [GRAPHICS] .