The synthesis and characterization of black zinc oxide nanoparticles using coffee and tea extract as eco-friendly reducing agents

Abstract

Searching for green alternatives in photocatalysis has been driven by the need for ecologically friendly synthesis techniques and sustainable materials. A semiconductor with photocatalytic properties, zinc oxide (ZnO) is often synthesised via severe chemical processes. However, there are safety and environmental issues with these methods because they frequently use complicated equipment and harmful reducing chemicals. This study investigates the green production of black ZnO nanoparticles utilising tea and coffee extracts as natural reducing agents as a sustainable substitute. Because of their improved charge carrier separation and increased light absorption, these black ZnO nanoparticles are being studied as potential homojunction photocatalysts for environmental applications.