Green and simple synthesis of Ag nanoparticles loaded onto cellulosic fiber as efficient and low-cost catalyst for reduction of 4-nitrophenol

Abstract

A green and very simple method (photoreduction of Ag⁺ by ethanol within few minutes) was used for preparation of Ag nanoparticles loaded onto cellulosic fiber and was used as catalyst for reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol. The prepared catalyst was characterized with SEM, EDAX, and UV–Visible spectroscopy. Ag nanoparticles with 50 nm diameter are distributed homogeneously on the surface of cellulosic fabric. Reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol can be achieved by the prepared catalyst within few minutes and the catalyst can be separated from solution easily. The kinetics of catalytic reaction was investigated at different concentrations of 4-nitrophenol and NaBH₄. It was found that the kinetics of reaction follows Langmuir–Hinshelwood mechanism. It has been found that the prepared catalyst can be used several times for reduction of 4-nitrophenol without losing its catalytic activity.