Hybrid Synthesis of Nano Zero-Valent Iron Using Sodium Borohydride and Palm Waste Extracts

This study presents a hybrid synthesis strategy for nanozero-valent iron (nZVI) by integrating sodium borohydride (NaBH₄) with plant extracts derived from three types of palm waste: empty fruit bunches (EFB), palm fronds (PF), and palm kernel shells (PKS). The primary objective was to assess the impact of palm waste extract type on the key physicochemical properties of the synthesized nZVI, specifically the relative yield of metallic iron (Fe⁰), specific surface area, and magnetic responsiveness. Palm waste extracts were prepared through maceration and then adjusted to pH 12 to enhance their reducing potential. The hybrid synthesis was conducted under ambient conditions, and the resulting nZVI samples were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy to assess Fe⁰ formation, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis to determine specific surface area, and a magnetic attraction test to evaluate magnetic behavior. Among the palm waste extracts, nZVI synthesized with EFB extract exhibited the highest Fe⁰ yield, the largest specific surface area (177.41 m²/g), and the strongest magnetic force (3.296 mN), likely due to the higher phytochemical content of the EFB extract. These findings highlight the significant impact of palm waste type on nZVI properties, providing valuable insights for designing green, sustainable nanomaterials for environmental and catalytic applications.