Application of Green Technology for the Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Rosemary and their Effect on Hydrocarbon Removal from Soil and Enhancement of Plant Physiological Parameters
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Abstract
To develop an eco-friendly method for synthesizing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using rosemary extract and to evaluate their effectiveness in removing hydrocarbons from soil and date palm leaves. Methods Study sites were selected in Baghdad near the Central Oil Company to represent different pollution levels, including highly contaminated and nearly uncontaminated areas and analyzed using XRF and GC-MS to determine hydrocarbon concentrations. Rosemary leaves were processed to obtain the bioactive extract used for the green synthesis of ZnO-NPS through an ultrasonic-assisted aqueous reaction, followed by centrifugation, drying, and sterilization. The nanoparticles were characterized using SEM, FTIR, and XRD to determine their morphology. Results: GC analysis of the rosemary extract revealed 32 active compounds including phenolics, organic acids, amines, alcohols, and fatty acids which contributed to nanoparticle stabilization and enhanced surface reactivity. SEM confirmed the formation of spherical, smooth, and uniformly dispersed nanoparticles measuring 15–30 nm, with an organic layer of 2–3 nm thickness. DLS analysis showed a narrow size distribution (PDI = 0.18). The application of rosemary-mediated ZnO-NPS resulted in a significant reduction in hydrocarbon concentrations, achieving 25–36% removal in soil and 40–52% in date palm leaves over six months, while maintaining the activity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. SPAD chlorophyll measurements indicated improved photosynthetic performance and reduced oxidative stress due to decreased hydrocarbon toxicity and increased zinc availability for essential enzymatic processes. Conclusions: The results demonstrate that ZnO nanoparticles synthesized using rosemary extract provide an effective and environmentally friendly approach for hydrocarbon remediation, while enhancing plant growth and preserving soil microbial health.
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