Degradation of toxic textile dyes and detection of hazardous Hg 2+ by low-cost bioengineered copper nanoparticles synthesized using Impatiens balsamina leaf extract

Abstract Biological synthesis of metal nanoparticles has been proved as a simple, biocompatible, low cost and green alternative to standard chemical and physical procedures. In this study, we present an unexplored single-step and green process for preparing copper nanoparticles from copper sulphate solution featuring leaf extract of Impatiens balsamina along with the study of its photocatalytic activity and ability for instant mercury detection. Standard characterization techniques like ultraviolet visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, X-ray diffracion (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) etc. were used to verify the production, crystallinity and morphology of biogenic copper nanoparticles. Most importantly, the photocatalytic properties and mercury sensing abilities of these nanoparticles were studied under practical conditions. The effective photocatalytic and mercury detecting properties coupled with economical viability and low-toxicity can make these copper nanoparticles an appealing choice for wastewater management systems.