Synthesis and Characterization of Biotemplate γ-Al2O3 Nanoparticles Based on Morus alba Leaves

Mesoporous gamma-alumina nanoparticles were synthesized using a green and sustainable approach. To this end, the Morus alba leaves were utilized as a biotemplate. Various treatment and infiltration parameters including wetting condition and temperature were employed to find out the best synthetic method. The nano alumina could further be used as a catalyst in various processes. Hence, conventional structural characterization techniques were employed to analyze nano alumina structure, including X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), N-2 adsorption/desorption, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The presence of two prominent peaks in XRD patterns confirmed the formation of cubic gamma-Al2O3 in all samples. In addition, the FESEM results showed a regular porous structure for treated leaves and exhibited the replication of leaves morphology in the samples. The acidity of the optimum nano alumina sample determined through temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia (NH3-TPD) technique. The temperature-programmed reduction of hydrogen (H-2-TPR) proved the reduction of Al. [GRAPHICS] .

Automated summary

Mesoporous gamma-alumina nanoparticles were synthesized using Morus alba leaves as a biotemplate through various treatment parameters. The nano alumina can be utilized as a catalyst, and its structure was analyzed using conventional techniques. The ammonia desorption and hydrogen reduction techniques were used to determine the acidity and reduction of the nano alumina sample.