Exploration of Orange Peel Waste as Precursor for the Synthesis and Characterization of highly Crystalline and Mesoporous Silicon Oxide Nanoparticles

Abstract

This study presents a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to synthesizing silicon oxide nanoparticles (SiONPs) using orange peel waste as a precursor. The research aims to investigate the presence and suitability of biomolecules within orange peel waste for reducing silicon precursors into SiONPs, optimize the synthesis process, characterize the synthesized nanoparticles, explore potential applications, and address knowledge gaps in utilizing waste materials for SiONP synthesis. The significance of the study lies in its contributions to sustainability, environmental friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and novel application of orange peel waste. By utilizing green synthesis methods, the study reduces environmental impact, promotes circular economy principles, and introduces a cost-effective alternative for SiONP production. Additionally, the study fills a critical knowledge gap by being the first to directly utilize orange peel waste for SiONP synthesis, potentially revolutionizing SiONP production and promoting a greener future. The scope involves exploring biomolecules in orange peel waste, optimizing synthesis processes, characterizing SiONPs, and exploring initial applications. While the study focuses on orange peel waste, its findings may have broader implications for utilizing other citrus fruit peels or plant waste in nanoparticle synthesis. Limitations include the focus on specific waste, limited exploration of applications, scalability challenges, and the need for long-term stability assessments. Research questions guide the study, addressing the presence of silicon-containing biomolecules in orange peel waste, optimal synthesis conditions, characteristics of synthesized SiONPs, and preliminary functionalities for potential applications. Overall, this research contributes to advancing sustainable nanotechnology practices and offers promising avenues for waste utilization and nanoparticle synthesis