Characteristics of nano-size MgO prepared using aqueous extract of different parts of Moringa oleifera plant as green synthesis agents

Abstract

Plant-based green synthesis approach is increasingly popular because of its simple process, cost-effectiveness, environmental friendly nature, expandability to commercial level, efficiency in large-scale synthesis, and flexibility in utilizing various value-added products. This work focuses on the synthesis and characterization of nano-size MgO prepared using water-soluble compounds extracted from different parts of Moringa oleifera plant, including woody vascular, the bark of woody, twigs, and leaves. To examine the efficacy of the aqueous extracts as a reducing agent and stabilizing agent, they were mixed with magnesium chloride solution, followed by addition of NaOH solution to form precipitate of magnesium hydroxide. The progress of the reaction was followed by UV-Vis spectrophotometric technique. The precipitate was calcined at 600 ℃; for 5 h, and then characterized using various techniques include XRD, SEM, TEM, and PSA. The formation of MgO as nano material, with the particle size in the range of 40 to 100 nm was confirmed by characterization techniques employed. Successful production of nano-size MgO achieved in this study demonstrates that M. oleifera plant is a prospective source of green agents for production of nano-size materials.