Green synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial activity, and optimization of iron oxide nanoparticles for efficient Acid Red 73 dye removal from aqueous solution by a Taguchi approach
The study addresses the environmental challenge posed by dye-laden wastewater, specifically focusing on the toxicity and persistence of Acid Red 73 (AR73). Traditional treatment methods often face limitations, leading to a search for cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions. This study investigates using green iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3 NPs) synthesized from Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) extract to remove AR73 from aqueous solutions. The Fe2O3 NPs were synthesized through a biosynthetic process using Arthrospira platensis extract and characterized using different techniques. The adsorption experiments were designed using the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array to optimize pH, dosage, contact time, and initial dye concentration. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed hydroxyl (O–H) groups from the extract and carbonyl (C = O) groups, suggesting potential hydrogen bonding with the dye. Fe–O stretching vibrations indicated the presence of iron oxide. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis identified carbon, oxygen, iron, and sulfur while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed an irregular morphology with clusters about 50 µm in size. Zeta potential analysis showed a negative surface charge on the Fe2O3 nanoparticles, potentially influencing dye adsorption through electrostatic repulsion. The study employed the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array design to optimize the AR73 adsorption process, identifying pH as the most critical factor, followed by adsorbent dosage and initial dye concentration. Optimal conditions achieved a removal efficiency of up to 99.88%. Regression models highlighted pH as the most significant factor. The nanoparticles demonstrated stability across three adsorption–desorption cycles, retaining significant adsorption capacity. Additionally, the nanoparticles demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae. Desorption and regeneration tests showed that the dye-loaded Fe2O3 NPs maintained stable performance for at least three cycles, indicating their potential reusability in practical applications. Overall, this study showcases the feasibility of using green-synthesized Fe2O3 NPs for dye removal, suggesting potential scalability for wastewater treatment. The approach not only offers high removal efficiency but also aligns with environmental sustainability.
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