Synergistic effects of β-NaFeO2 ferrite nanoparticles for photocatalytic degradation, antibacterial, and antioxidant applications

Abstract

Here, synthesis and thorough characterization of β-NaFeO₂ nanoparticles utilizing a co-precipitation technique is presented. XRD analysis confirmed a hexagonal-phase structure of β-NaFeO₂. SEM revealed well-dispersed spherical nanoparticles with an average diameter of 45 nm. The FTIR spectrum analysis revealed weak adsorption bands at 1054 cm⁻¹ suggested metal–metal bond stretching (Fe–Na). UV-Visible spectroscopy indicates a 4.4 eV optical band gap. Colloidal stability of β-NaFeO₂ was evidenced via Zeta potential (−28.5 mV) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) measurements. BET analysis reveals a substantial 343.27 m² g⁻¹ surface area with mesoporous characteristics. Antioxidant analysis indicates efficacy comparable to standard antioxidants, while concentration-dependent antibacterial effects suggest enhanced efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria, particularly Streptococcus. The Photocatalytic activity of β-NaFeO₂ showed significant pollutant degradation (>90% efficiency), with increased degradation rates at higher nanoparticle concentrations, indicating potential for environmental remediation applications.