Dual-functional Phytofabricated Ag/Ni bimetallic nanocatalyst: Highly active nanomaterial for microwave-assisted degradation of 4-nitrophenol and antimicrobial activity

This study reports a phytofabrication technique to synthesize bimetallic Silver/Nickel nanoparticles using Bombax Ceiba Plant extract (BC@Ag/Ni BMNPs). Designed a nanocatalyst evaluated for dual catalytic application (i) degradation of 4-nitrophenol and (ii) antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. To examine the functionality, texture, morphology, contents of elements, magnitude, and electrostatic properties of prepared BC@Ag/Ni BMNPs using different analytical techniques, including FTIR, XRD, FESEM, EDX, and Zeta potential. Various parameters have been used to degrade 4-nitrophenol, such as reducing agent concentration and volume, reaction time, dose of BC@Ag/Ni BMNPs, and 4-nitrophenol concentration. After optimization, the BC@Ag/Ni BMNPs achieved 99 % efficiency in 60 s using 120 μg of material. The results demonstrate that this catalytic reaction followed the Langmuir-Hinshelwood kinetic mechanism. The antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and A. niger was evaluated and found promising results. The phytofebricate BC@Ag/Ni BMNPs nanocatalyst exhibits excellent catalytic and antimicrobial activity, making it suitable for protecting the aquatic environment from pollution caused by organic toxins and microbial activity.