ISOLATION OF BACTERIA FROM HEAVILY RUST- CONTAMINATED SITE FOR IRON OXIDE NANOPARTICLE SYNTHESIS AND EVALUATION OF ANTIMICROBIAL AND DYE DECOLORISATION PROPERTIES

Abstract

This study presents a novel approach for the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) utilizing bacteria isolated from a heavily rust-contaminated site. The precursor for IONP synthesis was collected rust, abundant in the environment. Bacterial strains capable of mediating this synthesis were isolated and characterized. Various physicochemical techniques including UV- Vis spectroscopy, zeta-potential, solubility testing, and FTIR were employed for the characterization of the synthesized IONPs.The antimicrobial efficacy of the synthesized IONPs was assessed against some microbial strains. Results demonstrated promising antimicrobial efficacy, indicating the potential of these nanoparticles as effective antimicrobial agents. Furthermore, the ability of the IONPs to decolorize methylene blue dyes commonly found in industrial effluents was evaluated. The results revealed efficient dye decolorization properties, highlighting the potential applicability of these nanoparticles in wastewater treatment processes. Overall, this study underscores the utility of bacteria isolated from rust-contaminated environments for the eco-friendly synthesis of IONPs with multifunctional properties. The demonstrated antimicrobial activity and dye decolorization potential suggest promising applications in biomedical and environmental fields, opening avenues for further exploration and development of sustainable nanomaterials.