Green Synthesis of Nickel Oxide Nanoparticles Using Peppermint Extract: An Advanced Structural and Spectroscopic Study

Abstract

In this study, an eco-friendly approach for synthesizing nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO NPs) was developed in accordance with green chemistry principles. Iraqi peppermint (Mentha sp.) extract was employed as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesis involved reacting nickel nitrate with the plant extract under controlled thermal conditions, resulting in the formation of nanoparticles without the use of hazardous chemical reagents. Extensive characterization of the synthesized sample was performed using UV Var, XRD, SEM and EDS techniques. UV spotter showed an absorption peak at 720 Nm, which confirmed the synthesis of the nanomaterial. According to JCPDS card number 44-1159, XRD analysis revealed a pure faceted cubic (FCC) crystalline structure without evidence of secondary phases and diffraction stops. SEM images indicated a porous morphology with irregular nanoparticle -aglomerations, while the EDS exam validated the presence of nickel and oxygen as primary elements with nuclear positions showing high processing and structural unit. The findings clearly emphasize the potential of green synthesis, where locally available plant extracts act as a reducing agent to achieve nanomaterials with favorable properties. This approach is not only effective but also cost -effective and environmentally sustainable.