Green Synthesis of BaSO 4 NPs Using Antigonon Leptopus and Its Applications on Dye Degradation and Seedling Growth

Abstract This study presents barium sulfate nanoparticles (BaSO 4 NPs) synthesis and characterization using leaf extract from Antigonon leptopus Hook. & Arn. Various analytical techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX), and Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to confirm the structural properties, crystallinity, surface morphology, chemical purity, and presence of organic compounds. The XRD analysis indicated the crystallinity of BaSO 4 NPs with an average crystallite size of 7.8 nm, whereas SEM imaging revealed round morphology and EDX confirmed good chemical purity. FTIR spectroscopy provided evidence of both BaSO 4 NPs and organic compounds from the leaf extract. The synthesized BaSO 4 NP was then applied to degrade four different azo and azonium dyes, demonstrating effectiveness under various conditions. Furthermore, the impact of BaSO 4 NP on the germination and growth of foxtail millet ( Setaria italica (L.) P.Beauv.) was investigated. Preliminary findings suggested that BaSO 4 NPs promoted seed germination and growth of foxtail millet at low concentrations. However, caution is advised as higher concentrations may have a toxic effect. Overall, this study highlights the potential of bio‐forged BaSO 4 NPs for environmental remediation (dye degradation) and agricultural applications (enhancement of seed germination and growth) while emphasizing the importance of dosage control due to potential toxicity at higher concentrations.