Microwave-assisted single step green synthesis of NiO nanoparticles using Coleus scutellariodes leaf extract for the photocatalytic degradation of rufloxacin

The present study investigates the photocatalytic behavior of the green synthesized NiO NPs (Nickel Oxide Nanoparticles) in the photodegradation of the fluoroquinolone antibiotic rufloxacin. In the green synthesis of NiO NPs Coleus scutellariodes leaf extract act as a reducing and capping agent. The green synthesized NiO NPs structurally and morphologically characterized by utilizing various standard analytical protocols. The green synthesized NiO nanoparticles were face-centered and crystalline. The average particle sizes of the green synthesized nanoparticles were estimated at approximately 23 nm. The formation of ultrafine NiO NPs was supported by the study of the FT IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) study. The Photodegradation of the rufloxacin (RLF) in presence of the green synthesized NiO NPs was strictly monitored by using TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography) and HPLC (High Pressure Liquid Chromatography). The result of the present study is very promising and the synthesized nanoparticles play a prominent role in the photodegradation of the very common fluoroquinolone antibiotic and converted it into a non-toxic product. The finding of the present study is very helpful in the development of a clean efficient and eco-friendly approach for the treatment of wastewater contaminated with the most common fluoroquinolone antibiotic rufloxacin.