Sustainable Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Azadirachta indica: Structural and Functional Characterization

The present study reports a green and sustainable approach for the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Azadirachta indica (neem) leaf extract as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent. The eco-friendly synthesis method avoids the use of hazardous chemicals and high-energy processes, making it environmentally benign and cost-effective. The formation of ZnO nanoparticles was initially confirmed by visual color change and further characterized using various analytical techniques. UV–Visible spectroscopy showed a characteristic absorption peak in the range of 360–380 nm, confirming nanoparticle formation. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis indicated the involvement of phytochemicals in reduction and stabilization, while X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed a hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure with nanoscale crystallite size. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) demonstrated nearly spherical morphology, and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed elemental purity. The results highlight the potential of neem-mediated ZnO nanoparticles for applications in environmental remediation, antimicrobial activity, and sustainable nanotechnology.