Fabrication and Characterization of the Green Synthesized Magnetic Chitosan-zinc Nanocomposites: A Reusable and Effective Multifunctional Nanocatalyst for the Reduction of Organic Pollutants

Bimetallic nanoparticles have numerous applications in different areas, including catalysis, medicine, optics, etc. Due to numerous intrinsic disadvantages and potentially toxic chemical procedures, finding nontoxic, green, cost-effective and eco-friendly approaches for the production of bimetallic nanoparticles is much desired. In this study, Zn NPs, Zn/Fe3O4 NPs and Zn/Chitosan/Fe3O4 nanocomposites were synthesized via a one-pot procedure by using leave extract of Quercus brantii, in the absence of any dangerous components. The catalytic capacity of the green synthesized Zn/Chitosan/Fe3O4 nanocomposite was considered for the degradation of environmental pollutants, including Congo red (CR), methylene blue (MB), Cr(VI) and 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). The Zn/Chitosan/Fe3O4 nanocomposites were morphologically characterized using UV-Vis, SEM and EDX studies. The antioxidant reducing and antibacterial activities of Zn/Chitosan/Fe3O4 nanocomposites were also studied. Our results showed that this nanocomposite could be reused five times for removal of CR, MB, Cr(VI), and four times for reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), without substantial reduction in the catalytic capacity. Results showed the high potential catalytic activity of Zn/Chitosan/Fe3O4 nanocomposite for the reduction of organic pollutants.