Green synthesis of CuFe₂O₄ nanoparticles: Multifunctional applications in electrochemistry, sensing and photocatalysis
N. Raghavendra, H.P. Nagaswarupa, Shashi Shekhar T R, M. Mylarappa, N. Basavaraju, B.S. Surendra
Abstract
We successfully synthesized nanostructured copper ferrite (CuFe 2 O 4 ) using a combustion process with eco-friendly, renewable fuels derived from Aloe vera and Flacourtia indica plant root extracts. The structural, morphological, and compositional properties of the synthesised CuFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles were thoroughly characterised using advanced techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Electrochemical performance was evaluated through cyclic voltammetry (CV), AC impedance, and galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) measurements in a 0.1 M HCl electrolyte. Additionally, the nanoparticles were tested for their sensing capabilities toward chemical sensors (arsenic trioxide and mercuric acetate) and photocatalytic activity under UV light. Remarkably, CuFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles synthesized with Aloe vera demonstrated superior photocatalytic efficiency, degrading 95.6 % of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye within 120 min, compared to 82 % degradation achieved using the plant root extract. The magnetic recoverability of CuFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles further enhances their potential as an efficient and reusable photocatalyst. This study highlights the synthesis of high-quality, reproducible, and environmentally benign bio-composite materials, paving the way for sustainable and non-toxic applications in catalysis and sensing.