Revolutionary nanocomposite from papaya peel waste: a dual-edged sword against pollution and infections
Sustainable synthesis of carbon dots and reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite with enhanced photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties
image: A recent study published in the Journal of Biological Resources and Bioproducts introduced carbon quantum dots (CDs) prepared from papaya peel waste, followed by their combination with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) to prepare nano-composite materials with excellent photocatalytic and antibacterial activities. This study provides a sustainable solution to address environmental pollution and bacterial infections.
Credit: Christos Ritzoulis: Department of Food Science and Technology, International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki 57400, Greece.
In a significant leap towards sustainable environmental management and antimicrobial strategies, a team of international researchers has successfully synthesized a fluorescent carbon dot and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposite from papaya peel waste. The study, published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts, details a one-step hydrothermal method to fabricate the nanocomposite, which was then characterized using various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques.
The research was driven by the need to address water contamination and environmental pollution caused by the extensive use of organic compounds, particularly in the agricultural industry. The textile industry, which consumes up to 50% of the total dyes produced, contributes significantly to this pollution. The study aimed to develop a photocatalyst capable of degrading these toxic compounds under solar irradiation.
The synthesized RGO/CDs (RC) nanocomposites exhibited exceptional photocatalytic activity, with the highest degradation efficiency of 87% achieved in the composite containing a 2:1 mass ratio of RGO to CDs. The RGO sheets in the nanocomposite facilitated the transfer and separation of photoinduced electrons, preventing their recombination and enhancing the photocatalytic performance.
In addition to its photocatalytic prowess, the nanocomposite also displayed impressive antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis (Gram-positive) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Gram-negative) bacteria. The largest inhibition zone was observed in the nanocomposite tested against Gram-positive strains, indicating its potential as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent.
The study's findings highlight the innovative use of agricultural waste in the development of materials with multifaceted applications. The nanocomposite's dual functionality as both a photocatalyst and an antimicrobial agent underscores its potential in addressing environmental and public health challenges. The research also emphasizes the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly production methods, aligning with global efforts to reduce waste and promote green chemistry.
The authors suggest that the synergistic effect of RGO and CDs in the nanocomposite enhances its photocatalytic and antibacterial performance, making it a promising material for treating chronic infections and device-associated diseases caused by biofilm-producing multidrug-resistant bacteria.
See the article:
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobab.2023.01.009
Original Source URL
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S236996982300018X?via%3Dihub#fig0001
Journal