Green synthesis of CuO nanoparticles using Aegle marmelos fruit pulp extract: a sustainable approach for biomedical and supercapacitor applications

Abstract

This study presents a green and eco-friendly approach to synthesize copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs) using Aegle marmelos fruit pulp extract as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent. In this study, Aegle marmelos, known for its rich phytochemical profile, including flavonoids, phenolics, and tannins, was employed to reduce copper sulphate to CuO NPs. The synthesized NPs were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electrochemical measurements. The monoclinic phase, nano-crystalline structure, and presence of bioactive compounds from the extract acting as capping and stabilizing agents were confirmed by XRD, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy. The synthesized CuO NPs were evaluated for antibacterial, antioxidant, and hemolytic activity. Furthermore, the electrochemical performance of the CuO-based electrode was investigated to explore its potential applications in supercapacitors.