Synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles on the Zn plates recovered from waste batteries using eco-friendly methods and evaluation of its photocatalytical activity

Batteries are one of many types of solid waste. Once utilized, they are considered and categorized as 'hazardous waste' since they can cause major problems if unlawfully disposed of. The synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles using eco-friendly methods and their application in photocatalysis is crucial due to the environmental and economic benefits of recycling Zn plates from waste batteries. This innovative approach not only offers a sustainable solution for waste management but also presents an opportunity to harness the photocatalytic properties of ZnO nanoparticles for various environmental remediation applications, thereby contributing to the advancement of green nanotechnology and sustainable development. This study aims to address environmental concerns associated with battery waste and water pollution by proposing a sustainable and innovative approach. The focus is on recycling zinc plates from discarded batteries and synthesizing zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using ecofriendly methods. In this study, ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized on the Zn plates isolated from waste batteries by reacting the plates in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. SEM and EDS were used to characterize the final ZnO-coated Zn plate. The presence of ZnO nanoparticles with small spherical forms and modest diameter variation on the Zn plate was confirmed by SEM data. Furthermore, the photocatalytic treatment of azo dyes with the obtained ZnO-coated Zn plates was examined. The investigation yielded degradation rates of 72.7% and 57.4% for Remazol Brillant Blue R (RBBR) and Basic Red 18 (BR 18), respectively. Results demonstrate the potential of the ZnO-coated Zn plates as effective photocatalysts, highlighting their role in promoting sustainability in both waste management and water treatment. This work contributes to advancing eco-friendly technologies and underscores the importance of sustainable practices in addressing contemporary environmental challenges.