Tobacco stem extract-mediated green synthesis of Fe-doped ZnO nanoparticles towards enhanced photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue and solar cell efficiency

Abstract

This study presents an innovative method for the synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) and iron-doped zinc oxide (Fe-doped ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs), employing extracts derived from tobacco stems. The environmentally friendly green synthesis process here represents the novelty of production and applications. Various analytical techniques including FT-IR, XRD, EDX, SEM and TEM were used to characterise ZnO and Fe-doped ZnO NPs. The study reveals that 1% Fe-doped ZnO NPs demonstrate markedly improved photocatalytic performance, attributed to a narrower band gap and enhanced charge separation. These NPs effectively promote the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue, a promising approach for wastewater treatment and pollution control. Furthermore, the investigation of Fe-doped ZnO NPs in solar cells demonstrates their potential to substantially improve solar energy conversion efficiency. This novel approach paves the way for sustainable and eco-friendly advancements in both photocatalysis and photovoltaic technologies.