| Abstract Scope |
One major challenge facing developing countries is providing clean drinking water. This problem has been worsened by industrialization and water pollution from toxic dyes and pathogens. This study compares magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgONPs) synthesized using three tropical plant extracts; Chromolaena odorata, Hevea brasiliensis, Elaeis guineensis as reducing agents for antibacterial and photocatalytic applications. Characterization (DLS, XRD, FTIR, SEM, BET, TGA/DTA) revealed that phytochemicals influence nanoparticles properties. Chromolaena odorata-MgONPs showed the best performance, with the highest yield (60.59%), surface area (355.96 m²/g), and thermal stability. They achieved 92.82% photocatalytic degradation and 99.11% mineralization of methylene blue dye, highest reaction rate (0.0056 min⁻¹), and the best adsorption capacity (KF = 1.386 mg/g). Also, they exhibited superior antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 258 mg/mL) and antibacterial properties (30 mm, 27 mm). Notably, over 80% efficiency was retained after three reuse, highlighting C. odorata-based MgONPs as a promising, sustainable material for water purification and antimicrobial use. |