Optimizing Green Synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles Using Neem Leaf Extract: Influence of Reaction Parameters On Size And Morphology

Abstract

This current study builds on the synthesis of CuNPs through green chemistry methods employing neem leaf extract as the reducing and stabilizing agent. Flavonoids, terpenoids, and glycosides present in Neem leaves can reduce and stabilize the copper ions under mild conditions. In this work, the concentration of the precursors, temperature, pH, and the ratio of neem extract to copper sulfate solution has been optimized to achieve the desired size and shape of CuNPs. The experimental design of the synthesis process involved the extraction of neem leaf, then adding varying concentrations of copper sulfate to the extract, and then varying reaction parameters. Identification of synthesized CuNPs was performed with UV-Vis spectroscopy, TEM, XRD, FTIR, and DLS. The results revealed that the reaction parameters affected the size, morphology, and stability of the developed nanoparticles. Thus, the CuNPs with the desired characteristics and high dispersion stability were achieved because of the growth of the synthesis conditions. These CuNPs have properties such as high electrical and thermal conductivity, high catalytic activity, and good antibacterial properties and so have uses in electronics, catalysis, and medical fields. The work under discussion is focused on the biosynthesis of CuNPs with the help of neem leaf extract and states that it is crucial to control the reaction conditions to achieve the desired properties of CuNPs. Future work should be devoted to the scale-up of the synthesis process and the investigation of new applications in modern state-of-the-art devices.