Abstract
Iron-copper bimetallic nanoparticles (Fe-Cu BNPs) were prepared via a green synthesis route. Ixora finlaysoniana has been used in this study as a capping and stabilizing agent in the modification of Fe-Cu BNPs. As-synthesized BNPs were characterized using different techniques including UV/Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR, XRD and SEM. A particle size analyzer and SEM studies indicated the particle size to be in the range of 50-200 nm. In addition, degradation of MB dye in an aqueous system and radical-scavenging potential in a DPPH assay were also examined using BNPs. Methylene blue dye degradation in 17 min was monitored with UV/Vis spectrophotometry, which exhibited the efficiency of Fe-Cu BNPs. Bimetallic nanoparticles were also found to be efficient in neutralizing DPPH free radicals. Furthermore, kinetic studies of both dye degradation and radical scavenging potential are reported in this article. Subsequently, Fe-Cu BNPs synthesized via a green and sustainable method can be employed for dye degradation and free radical-scavenging activities.