Synthesis, Characterization and Catalytic Activity of Plant- Mediated MgO Nanoparticles Using Mucuna Pruriens L. Seed Extract and Their Biological Evaluation

Development of green and efficient procedures for the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles has emerged as a significant topic in the field of nanotechnology. In this respect, using natural resources,especially plant extract has attracted lots of attention; plant extract is a promising alternative to traditional and chemical techniques. The plant Mucuna pruriens L. contains high concentration of L-dopa in the seeds; it has been used as a nerve tonic for nervous system disorders including Parkinson’s disease. In this work, a rapid and efficient synthesis of stable magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) using aqueous extract of Mucuna pruriens seeds were reported. The biologically synthesized MgO NPs were characterized by UV–Visible and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy as well as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM). The potential of MgO nanoparticles in the degeneration of methyl orange (MO) and methylene blue (MB) dyes were assessed in different conditions. The results of these investigations showed that the synthesized MgO NPs have a good catalytic activity in the removal of both dyes. Biological study of biosynthesized MgO NPs showed moderate antibacterial property against four strains of bacteria and a very good antioxidant activity.