Biosynthesis and Characterization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized using Earthworm Based Extracts

Abstract

Iron oxide (β-Fe2O3) nanoparticles were synthesized through a biological method using earthworm based extracts like Eudrilus eugineae vermiwash, Eisenia fetida vermiwash, Eudrilus eugineae crushed extract, Eisenia fetida crushed extract, Eudrilus eugineae warm water extract, Eisenia fetida warm water extract and cow dung extract as a reducing and stabilizing agents. The development of β-Fe2O3 nanoparticles in the reaction mixture was determined by UV–visible spectroscopy. Followed by, the synthesized β-Fe2O3 nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transforms infra–red spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray and transmission electron microscopy. Synthesized β-Fe2O3 NPs are characterized as crystalline structure of hexagonal shape with particle size of 2.08-94.37 nm and carrying unique functional groups. Bioefficiency of β-Fe2O3 was assessed through In-vitro seed germination study with green gram (Vigna radiata) and results revealed that 200 mg concentrations of α-Fe2O3 supported better seed germination and early growth in V. radiata.