Novel Green Approach for the Synthesis of Nano biochar using Plant Resources and Botanical Extracts

Author: Rihana Rahman, Javid Ahmad Sofi, Nayar Afaq Kirmani, Ghulam Irshad Hassan Dar, Nageena Nazir, Sheikh Amjid, Tariq Ahmad Sofi, Neelofar Banday, Shaista Nazir, Shahnawaz Rasool Dar, Raqib Majeed Wani and Muneer Ahmad Bhat

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Abstract

This experiment was carried out in 2021-2022 to synthesize nano biochar using Mint (Mentha piperita) and Nettle Extract (Urtica diocia). Three different biochar materials (Apple twig, Maize stalk and Walnut shell) were subjected to pyrolysis at 400°C for 1 hour. Green synthesis methods, employing plant extracts, were employed as eco-friendly alternatives to physical and chemical methods. Characterization of the synthesized nano biochars was conducted using SEM (Scanning electron microscopy), XRD (X-ray powder diffraction), and FT-IR (Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy). SEM analysis revealed that nano biochars produced from Mint extract had average sizes of 50.0 nm to 148.0 nm, 68.0 nm to 112.0 nm, 70.0 to 155.0 nm with average size 85.8 nm, 92.4 nm and 105.2 nm for Apple twig, Maize stalk, and Walnut shell nano biochars, respectively. While those synthesized from nettle extract had average sizes of 78.0 to 120.0 nm, 50.0 to 100.0 nm and 50.0 to 140.0 nm with an average size of 97.8, 81.6 and 95.0 nm. These nano biochars exhibited various shapes, including spherical, cylindrical, plate-like, and flattened, as confirmed by SEM analysis. XRD analysis established their crystalline nature. FTIR study indicated alterations in functional groups among all biochars, highlighting the impact of plant extracts on their composition and properties. This work offers a quick, simple and non-toxic method for the synthesis of nano biochar.

Keywords

Nano biochar, Green synthesis, Plant extracts, Pyrolytic temperature, SEM, XRD, FT-IR

Conclusion

Green synthesis of Nanobiochar using Mint and Nettle extract showed average particle size of 85.8, 86.6 nm for Apple twig biochar, 80, 82.2 nm for Maize stalk biochar and 105.2,95 nm for Walnut shell biochar confirmed by SEM, XRD and FT-IR. Also, the crystalline structure was observed by XRD. This innovative approach to synthesizing nano biochar through biological means, utilizing Mint and Nettle extracts, holds significant promise for promoting environmentally friendly and sustainable agricultural practices. Beyond its agricultural applications, this method could find broader utility as a dosimeter across various fields, reflecting its versatility and potential to contribute to eco-conscious solutions in multiple industries. The utilization of natural extracts for nano biochar synthesis represents a noteworthy step toward greener and more responsible technological advancements.

References

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How to cite this article

Rihana Rahman, Javid Ahmad Sofi, Nayar Afaq Kirmani, Ghulam Irshad Hassan Dar, Nageena Nazir, Sheikh Amjid, Tariq Ahmad Sofi, Neelofar Banday, Shaista Nazir, Shahnawaz Rasool Dar, Raqib Majeed Wani and Muneer Ahmad Bhat (2023). Novel Green Approach for the Synthesis of Nano biochar using Plant Resources and Botanical Extracts. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 887-892.