Photocatalytic Degradation of Textile Dyes Using Green-Synthesized ZnO Nanomaterials

Abstract

Textile industries discharge large quantities of hazardous dyes that are non-biodegradable and toxic. Traditional wastewater treatments often fail to degrade these pollutants completely. This study investigates the green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using plant extracts and evaluates their photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye. Characterization using UV -Vis, XRD, and SEM confirmed the formation of wurtzite ZnO nanoparticles (30-50 nm). Photocatalytic tests showed 92% degradation within 120 minutes under UV irradiation. The results demonstrate that green-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles are efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly materials for wastewater treatment. Keywords ZnO nanoparticles, green synthesis, photocatalysis, textile dye degradation, wastewater treatment.