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This study aimed to evaluate dental adhesives containing different concentrations of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs) for their use in the treatment of dental fluorosis, observe the interaction of the adhesive on healthy enamel surfaces and with mild and moderate fluorosis, measure the adhesive strength and fluorosis, and determine the phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) content on these surfaces, as a reference for the potential use of this adhesive with ZnO‐NPs for dental fluorosis treatment. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) were used to characterise the ZnO‐NPs and analyse the weight percentages of P and Ca in the enamel using X‐ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and the adhesive strength using a universal mechanical testing machine. FESEM characterisation revealed that the ZnO‐NPs were less than 100 nm in size, with quasi‐spherical and hexagonal prism shapes. The synthesis of the ZnO‐NPs was confirmed by TEM, revealing their hexagonal crystalline structure. The adhesive strength by the universal mechanical testing machine showed that the adhesive with a 3% wt. concentration of ZnO‐NPs was better in the three groups of teeth, showing higher adhesive strength in teeth with mild (15.15 MPa) and moderate (12.76 MPa) fluorosis surfaces, and was even higher than that in healthy teeth (9.65 MPa). EDS analysis showed that teeth with mild and moderate fluorosis had the highest weight percentages of P and Ca, but there were no statistically significant differences compared to healthy teeth and teeth treated with adhesives. Lay description: This study focused on testing a new dental adhesive containing small particles called ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs). This study aimed to demonstrate whether this adhesive with ZnO‐NPs could be useful for treating dental fluorosis by improving its adhesion to teeth. One of the first objectives was to determine whether the dental adhesive could adhere better to teeth affected by mild or moderate fluorosis than to healthy teeth by measuring whether the levels of two important elements for healthy teeth, calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P), were affected by the adhesive. The size and shape of the small particles and teeth with mild or moderate fluorosis were observed using scanning electron microscopy. The nanoparticles were small (< 100 nm) and had specific quasi‐spherical and hexagonal prismatic shapes. More damage to the enamel was observed in teeth with mild or moderate fluorosis than in healthy teeth. The adhesive strength test demonstrated that the dental adhesive with 3% ZnO‐NPs had the best adhesion on all healthy conditions of teeth. It was particularly effective in teeth with mild or moderate fluorosis. Finally, the evaluation of the levels of P and Ca on the enamel showed that teeth with fluorosis had higher levels of these elements, but using the dental adhesive with ZnO‐NPs did not change the levels of these elements significantly because the adhesive avoided greater detachment because of greater adhesion to these surfaces. In conclusion, adding these small particles to dental adhesives could be an option for treating teeth affected by fluorosis. It stuck well and did not affect the levels of the important elements in the teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this investigation, an eco-friendly co-precipitation green routed approach was performed to synthesize zinc oxide (ZnO-NPs) nanoparticles using the exopolysaccharide of an actinobacterial strain. The formation of ZnO-NPs was initially confirmed by peaks of surface plasmon resonance using UV–Vis spectrophotometer. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized extensively using energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), particle size analyzer (PSA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The produced crystalline nanoparticles were ranged from 18.0 to 40.0 nm. The formed zinc oxide nanoparticles have revealed strong antioxidant potential and also proved their effectiveness against inflammation. ZnO-NPs also exhibited outstanding bactericidal action against clinical pathogenic bacterial strains. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of nanoparticles was assessed on breast and cervical carcinoma cells. The morphological changes caused in the cancer cells were observed through different fluorescent studies. This synthesis specifies on greener production of ZnO-NPs, and the attained results suggest that it could be applicable for vital therapeutic uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThere is a growing interest in utilizing exogenous osmolality compounds that can improve plants’ performance under salt-stress conditions. Proline and nanoparticles exogenously applied are thought to play a role in reaching this goal, in particular by increasing the plants’ ability to withstand several abiotic stresses, including salinity. To mitigate salt stress in wheat plants, exogenously applied proline and nanoparticles of silicon and zinc have been suggested. A field trial was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replicates of each treatment. Exogenously applied treatments were set as follows: control water spraying (CK), proline (Pro), SiO2 NPs (Si), ZnO NPs (Zn), SiO2-ZnO NPs (Si + Zn), and proline and SiO2-ZnO NPs (Pro + Si + Zn). Proline and SiO2-ZnO NPs alleviated salt stress and significantly improved wheat’s growth, yield, and nutrient content. Leaf-chlorophyll, proline, potassium (K), silicon (Si), zinc (Zn), and the K/Na ratio were all increased in leaves with exogenous application of proline and SiO2-ZnO NPs. Furthermore, sodium (Na) levels decreased. Nutrient contents in grain and straw, as well as crude protein in wheat grains, were significantly increased by the exogenous application of proline and SiO2-ZnO NPs. Furthermore, the greatest biological, grain, and straw yields were achieved with exogenously applied proline and SiO2-ZnO NPs. Our findings concluded that exogenously applying proline and SiO2-ZnO NPs successfully mitigated salt stress. Likewise, significantly increased all parameters investigated, with the exception of the Na content in wheat plant leaves, thereby increasing growth and yield in wheat plants grown in salinity soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been a notable rise in the prevalence of persistent pollutants in the environment, posing a significant hazard due to their toxicity and enduring nature. Conventional wastewater treatment methods employed in treatment plants rarely address these persistent pollutants adequately. Meanwhile, the concept of green synthesis has garnered considerable attention, owing to its environmentally friendly approach that utilizes fewer toxic chemicals and solvents. The utilization of materials derived from sustainable sources presents a promising avenue for solving pressing environmental concerns. Among the various sources of biological agents, plants stand out for their accessibility, eco-friendliness, and rich reserves of phytochemicals suitable for material synthesis. The plant extract–mediated synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) has emerged as a promising solution for applications in wastewater treatment. Thorough investigations into the factors influencing the properties of these green ZnONPs are essential to establish a detailed and reliable synthesis process. Major weaknesses inherent in ZnONPs can be addressed by changing the optical, magnetic, and interface properties through doping with various semiconductor materials. Consequently, research efforts to mitigate water pollution are being driven by both the future prospects and limitations of ZnO-based composites. This review underscores the recent advancements of plant extract–mediated ZnONP composites for water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to analyze the improvement in the photocatalytic properties of ZnO nanoparticles by incorporating Gd. In order to understand the influence of incorporating Gd into the ZnO matrix, the photocatalytic activity of the material is compared at various Gd concentrations. Different doping concentrations of Gd ranging from 0 to 0.075 are incorporated into ZnO and the synthesized ZnO-Gd nanocomposites are investigated using structural, morphological, and optical analyses using XRD, SEM, and UV-vis spectroscopy, respectively. The photocatalytic performance of the synthesized ZnO-Gd nanocomposites is determined via the degradation of organic contaminants under visible light. Regarding the latter, the results suggest that photocatalytic efficiency increases with increasing Gd doping levels up to an optimal doping concentration. The enhancement of the photocatalytic performance of Gd-doped ZnO is explained, along with the mechanism related to the availability of new pathways for charge carrier recombination. Among all of them, the 0.075 Gd-doped ZnO catalyst exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity which degrades 89% of MB dye after being irradiated with UV light for 120 min. However, pure ZnO degrades only 40% of MB dye within the same testing conditions. In closing, this work confirms the applicability of Gd-doped ZnO nanocomposites as photocatalysts in cleaning up the environment and in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) has long been acknowledged as being one of the most harmful bacteria for human civilization. It is the main contributor to skin and soft tissue infections. The gram positive pathogen also contributes to bloodstream infections, pneumonia, or bone and joint infections. Hence, developing an efficient and targeted treatment for these illnesses is greatly desired. Recently, studies on nanocomposites (NCs) have significantly increased due to their potent antibacterial and antibiofilm properties. These NCs provide an intriguing way to control the growth of bacteria without causing the development of resistance strains that come from improper or excessive use of the conventional antibiotics. In this context, we have demonstrated the synthesis of a NC system by precipitation of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) on Gypsum followed by encapsulation with Gelatine, in the present study. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to validate the presence of ZnO NPs and Gypsum. The film was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The system exhibited promising antibiofilm action and was effective in combating S. aureus and MRSA in concentrations between 10 and 50 ug/ml. The bactericidal mechanism by release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was anticipated to be induced by the NC system. Studies on cell survival and in-vitro infection support the film's notable biocompatibility and its potential for treating Staphylococcus infections in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Using the renewable energy, especially solar energy, is an environmental-friendly approach for seawater desalination. Solar evaporation is a promising freshwater harvesting strategy rich in energy, including solar and water energy. Herein, we propose a solar evaporation hybrid hydrogel including polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and glutaraldehyde (GA) as a polymer network, semiconductor oxide nanoparticles (ZnO, CuO) and activated carbon as a photothermal material. Structural properties of hybrid hydrogel were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, surface morphology by field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), chemical bonding by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and optical absorption and absorption coefficient (α) of components by UV–Vis spectroscopy. The result showed in visible region, PVA:ZnO:AC hydrogel nanocomposite has a strong absorption (55%) compare of the PVA:CuO:AC hydrogel nanocomposite (35%). In addition, by distillation measurements, the evaporator system demonstrated for PVA:CuO:AC and PVA:ZnO:AC Hydrogel an evaporation rate of 2.29 kg m−2 h−1 and 5.19 kg m−2 h−1 with the evaporation efficiency of 30.66% and 70.80%, respectively, under 0.1 sun irradiation. For PVA:CuO:AC hydrogel, the hardness of Caspian seawater decreased from 6648 to 115 ppm and ion conductance from 8641 (μS) to 244 (μS) and for the PVA:ZnO:AC Hydrogel decreased to 97 ppm and ion conductance to 206 (μS). Experiments showed that with changing type of the ZnO or CuO semiconductor oxide nanoparticles can effectively on regulate the optical properties of the evaporator. Eventually, this work begins a new point of synthesizing cost-effective photothermal absorbers based on metal oxides material and activated carbon nanocomposite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work has used thermal decomposition and high-energy grinding to fabricate ZnO nanoparticles. The grinding time (tm) for up to 120 min reduced the average crystallite size (d) from 97 nm of the initial material to ~ 28 nm. Apart from Zn and O, no impurity related to the grinding was found in the fabricated nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction and Raman scattering data showed a single phase of the fabricated samples, crystallizing in the wurtzite hexagonal structure. With decreasing d, the lattice parameters gradually increased while more Zn- and O-related defects and structural distortions were created in the ZnO host lattice, which enhanced the lattice strain. These phenomena rapidly reduced excitonic emissions, enhanced the relative intensity of visible photoluminescence, widened asymmetrically and red-shifted the Raman modes, and stimulated vibration modes at wavenumbers of 500~620 cm−1. Using the spatial correlation model, the spatial correlation length characteristic for structural disorders decreased as d reduced. In particular, the study of the photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine-B under UV-light proved that lattice defects generated by the grinding reduced the degradation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Access to safe drinking water is among the main challenges in poor countries due to seriously polluted water by waterborne pathogens. Water treatment technology is also prohibitively expensive, and some of it produces harmful by-products. As a result, phyto-fabricated ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are attracting significant interest for their antibacterial activity and potential applications in water disinfection. This study has focused on optimizing the synthesis parameters of ZnO-NPs using coffee husk extract (CHE) as an efficient reducing and capping agent to improve the size and activities, which had not been investigated before at optimal process parameters, such as temperature, zinc precursor-to-CHE ratio, reaction time, and pH. Furthermore, there has not been a study of indigenous CHE total phenolic content. CHE was obtained from coffee husk via ethanol solid-liquid extraction. The total phenolic content of CHE was determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu colorimetric method using gallic acid as a standard. The contribution of CHE in the formation of ZnO-NPs was first observed by a color change to yellowish-white, which was then confirmed using UV-visible spectrophotometry. The synthesis of ZnO-NPs was optimized at different physico-chemical conditions, and the optimal synthesis parameters were found to be at a precursor (ZnO (Zn(NO3)2·6H2O))-to-CHE ratio of 1:1 (v/v), pH 10.0, a reaction time of 1 h, and reaction temperature of 80 °C. The functional groups of CHE-capped ZnO-NPs were studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and the results revealed that CHE phytochemicals have successfully capped the NPs. The presence and purity of elemental zinc and oxygen were confirmed by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. According to the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, NPs were found to be crystalline with crystal sizes of 9.8 nm. The stability and particle size of ZnO-NPs were analyzed using dynamic light scattering (DLS). A negative zeta potential value of the biosynthesized NPs (− 20.27 mV) demonstrated the stability of the biosynthesized nanomaterials. Furthermore, CHE-capped ZnO-NPs showed potent antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and E. coli but with greater antibacterial effect against S. aureus than against E. coli. This study used a novel green process technique that employed coffee residuals as a source of reducing and capping agents by optimizing synthesis parameters for the green synthesis of ZnO-NPs. The developed process has great practical application potential for waterborne pathogen disinfection because the process is safe, inexpensive, effective, and simple to prepare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the optical, mechanical, and antimicrobial properties of polypropylene (PP) fibers enhanced with titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. Using a Mach–Zehnder interferometric system, we examined the refractive indices, birefringence, and opto‐mechanical behavior of blank PP, PP/TiO2, and PP/ZnO nanocomposite fibers under various conditions, including different polarization orientations and during cold drawing processes. The 2D Fourier transform algorithm is employed to analyze interferometric data, enabling precise measurements of refractive index profiles and birefringence. Results show that both TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles significantly enhance the optical and mechanical properties of PP fibers. PP/TiO2 fibers exhibited the highest refractive index (1.530) and birefringence (0.0459), followed by PP/ZnO (1.522 and 0.040) and blank PP (1.520 and 0.031). The maximum draw ratios achieved were 4.2, 3.9, and 3.5 for PP/TiO2, PP/ZnO, and blank PP fibers, respectively, indicating improved mechanical properties in the nanocomposites. Antimicrobial efficacy was evaluated using the shaking flask method and optical density measurements against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. PP/ZnO fibers demonstrated the highest antimicrobial activity, with growth reductions ranging from 64.8% to 80.4%, followed by PP/TiO2 fibers (56.0% to 70.3%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aguama (Bromelia pinguin L.), a plant belonging to the Bromeliaceae family, possesses a rich content of organic compounds historically employed in traditional medicine. This research focuses on the sustainable synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles via an eco-friendly route using 1, 2, and 4% of Aguama peel extract. This method contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the use of hazardous chemicals in nanoparticle production. The optical properties, including the band gap, were determined using the TAUC model through Ultraviolet–Visible Spectroscopy (UV–Vis). The photocatalytic activity was evaluated using three widely studied organic dyes (methylene blue, methyl orange, and rhodamine B) under both solar and UV radiation. The results demonstrated that the ZnO nanoparticles, characterized by a wurtzite-type crystalline structure and particle sizes ranging from 68 to 76 nm, exhibited high thermal stability and band gap values between 2.60 and 2.91 eV. These nanoparticles successfully degraded the dyes completely, with methylene blue degrading in 40 min, methyl orange in 70 min, and rhodamine B in 90 min. This study underscores the potential of Bromelia pinguin L. extract in advancing sustainable nanoparticle synthesis and its application in environmental remediation through efficient photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer is a significant cause of death among women worldwide, and limited treatment approaches are available for patients with metastatic or recurrent disease. Recently, the combination of nanoparticles (NPs) and radiotherapy (RT) has been shown to be an effective treatment because it enhances the sensitivity of cancer cells to radiation. ZnO NPs stabilized with HSA have become one of the most popular types of metal oxide nanoparticles because of their cost-effectiveness and minimal toxicity. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the radiosensitization effects of HSA/ZnO-NPs on cervical (HeLa) cancer cells under megavoltage (MV) X-ray irradiation. Methods: HSA/ZnO-NPs were prepared and characterized by SEM and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) technique. The cytotoxicity of HSA/ZnO NPs was evaluated in HeLa cells via an MTT assay. The radiosensitization effects were investigated under megavoltage X-ray irradiation using a clonogenic survival assay and quantifying γH2AX foci. Moreover, apoptosis and cell cycle analyses were conducted using a Muse™ Cell Analyzer. Results: HSA/ZnO-NPs reduced the viability of HeLa cells in a dose-dependent manner, which revealed that the IC50 of HSA/ZnO-NPs was approximately 30 µg/mL. The prepared particles exhibited moderate aggregation regarding hydrodynamic size (approximately 300–400 nm) and a negative zeta potential charge. Compared to the control group, combining HSA/ZnO-NPs with irradiation reduced the colony-forming ability and survival of HeLa cells by approximately 51% and 71% for 2 and 4 Gy, respectively. Correspondingly, the results of the apoptosis analysis showed that combining HSA/ZnO-NPs with irradiation significantly increased apoptosis induction by approximately 39.15% and 77.67% for 2 and 4 Gy, respectively. In addition, we observed a significant increase in cell cycle arrest at the S phase, by about 11.3% and 19.3% for 2 and 4 Gy, respectively. Conclusions: HSA/ZnO-NPs could significantly enhance the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation, which suggests the promising potential of cervical cancer radiotherapy under megavoltage X-ray irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The functionalization of ZnO nanoparticles has proven to be an effective alternative to avoid agglomeration and improve their physic-chemical properties. In this work, we studied the functionalization of ZnO nanoparticles using citric acid (CA) through two methods: in situ functionalization and sonochemical functionalization to compare the effects on the physicochemical and antimicrobial properties of functionalized commercial ZnO nanoparticles with those synthesized and functionalized at the same time. Both methods are considered environmentally friendly (green chemistry) since the use of chemical toxic agents was avoided and the reaction medium was water. The in situ method demonstrated the ability of CA to act as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and RAMAN spectroscopy analyses confirmed the functionality of ZnO nanoparticles, through the formation of the COO−/ZnO complex. The wurtzite-type hexagonal crystalline structure of the ZnO nanoparticles was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) analysis showed that in situ functionalization was more favored than sonochemical functionalization since 46.66 % and 27.22 % of the organic ligand were obtained on the surface of the nanoparticles, respectively. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results revealed the chemical and electronic state of the zinc which was 2+ and atomic percentages of carbon of 40.64 % and 38.35 %, as well as atomic percentages of oxygen of 38.67 and 36.78 % for ZnO-AC and ZnO-AC-R1 nanoparticles, respectively. The evaluation of the antibacterial efficiency of the nanoparticles functionalized by both methods demonstrated that they possess a superior antimicrobial activity when compared with non-fuctionalized nanoparticles. The ZnO nanoparticles synthesized and functionalized via in situ showed an efficiency of 99.99 % starting concentrations of 200 ppm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating environmental concerns associated with conventional plastic packaging have accelerated the development of sustainable alternatives, making food packaging a focus area for innovation. Bioplastics, particularly polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), have emerged as potential candidates due to their biobased origin, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. PHAs stand out for their good mechanical and medium gas permeability properties, making them promising materials for food packaging applications. In parallel, zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) have gained attention for their antimicrobial properties and ability to enhance the mechanical and barrier properties of (bio)polymers. This review aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the research on PHA/ZnO nanocomposites. It starts with the importance and current challenges of food packaging, followed by a discussion on the opportunities of bioplastics and PHAs. Next, the synthesis, properties, and application areas of ZnO NPs are discussed to introduce their potential use in (bio)plastic food packaging. Early research on PHA/ZnO nanocomposites has focused on solvent-assisted production methods, whereas novel technologies can offer additional possibilities with regard to industrial upscaling, safer or cheaper processing, or more specific incorporation of ZnO NPs in the matrix or on the surface of PHA films or fibers. Here, the use of solvent casting, melt processing, electrospinning, centrifugal fiber spinning, miniemulsion encapsulation, and ultrasonic spray coating to produce PHA/ZnO nanocomposites is explained. Finally, an overview is given of the reported effects of ZnO NP incorporation on thermal, mechanical, gas barrier, UV barrier, and antimicrobial properties in ZnO nanocomposites based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate). We conclude that the functionality of PHA materials can be improved by optimizing the ZnO incorporation process and the complex interplay between intrinsic ZnO NP properties, dispersion quality, matrix–filler interactions, and crystallinity. Further research regarding the antimicrobial efficiency and potential migration of ZnO NPs in food (simulants) and the End-of-Life will determine the market potential of PHA/ZnO nanocomposites as active packaging material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Zn(II) complex with the composition [Zn((2-Cl)(5-NO2)C6H3CONHO)2] was synthesized by reacting anhydrous ZnSO4 with 2-chloro-5-nitrobenzohydroxamate [(2-Cl)(5-NO2)C6H3CONHOK] (KHL) in 1:2 molar ratio in methanol (MeOH) solvent under stirring conditions. Various physicochemical studies, including elemental analysis, molar conductivity measurements, and spectroscopic techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–visible, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR), were conducted to characterize the complex. The bonding via carbonyl and hydroxamic oxygen atoms (O, O coordination), and a distorted tetrahedral geometry around zinc were cautiously proposed based on the experimental data. The zinc hydroxamate complex served as a precursor for the green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles utilizing an extract of Bergera koenigii (curry tree), characterized by XRD, BET, SEM (pre and post degradation), TEM and EDS mapping. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles demonstrated remarkable photocatalytic activity under UV light assistance, achieving 99.5% and 99.94% degradation of cationic dyes, Malachite green and Fuchsin basic, respectively, within 10 to 15 min. Additionally, ZnO nanoparticles exhibited 98.94% degradation of potassium permanganate (KMnO4) within 10 to 12 min, showcasing superior photocatalytic efficiency compared to other reported nano photocatalysts. Mineralization tests were conducted using COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) and TOC (Total Organic Carbon) analyses to enhance the understanding of photodegradation. Furthermore, ZnO nanoparticles displayed efficient and selective sensing for Cr(VI) and Hg(II) ions in the presence of other cations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Series of six Zn(100−x)-MgxO (for x = 0.0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, and 2.0; in mol%) nanoparticles were prepared by chemical co-precipitation. The morphology of the nanoparticles was determined by SEM with EDAX studies. The typical particle size (D) was identified as 46–58 nm. The photoluminescence spectrum (excited at 350 nm) of pure ZnO nanoparticles showed five distinct emission bands in violet, violet-blue, blue, green, and yellow-orange regions. When MgO added to ZnO gradually, a clear blueshift was observed in the emission bands of shorter wavelength (violet, violet-blue, and blue) region with gradual decrease in their intensities; whereas, redshift was observed in the emission bands of longer wavelength (green and yellow-orange) region with gradual increase in their intensities. The emission band intensity ratio (ISL = Ishorter/Ilonger) was determined. This ratio, ISL has indicated the existence of more number of oxygen defects (Oi and VO) than zinc defects (Zni and VZn) at high MgO content in the ZnMgO nanoparticles. The CIE diagram revealed that the coordinates (x, y) of the ZnMgO nanoparticles are nearly close to those of ideal white light emitters (x≈0.33, y≈0.33). Thus, the ZnMgO nanoparticles may find the potential applications as optical materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, several organic dyes found in wastewater cause severe contamination problems for flora, fauna, and people in direct contact with them. This research proposes an alternative for the degradation of polluting dyes using ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) synthesized by an ecological route using leaf and root extracts of Ambrosia ambrosioides as a reducing agent (with a weight/volume ratio = 4%). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to determine the morphology, showing an agglomeration of cluster-shaped NPs. Using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), different sizes of NPs ranging from 5 to 56 nm were observed for both synthesized NPs. The composition and structure of the nanomaterial were analyzed by infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), showing as a result that the NPs have a wurtzite-like crystalline structure with crystallite sizes around 32–37 nm for both samples. Additionally, the bandgap of the NPs was calculated using Ultraviolet Visible Spectroscopy (UV–Vis), determining values of 2.82 and 2.70 eV for the NPs synthesized with leaf and root, respectively. Finally, thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated that the nanoparticles contained an organic part after the green synthesis process, with high thermal stability for both samples. Photocatalytic analysis showed that these nanomaterials can degrade four dyes under UV irradiation, reaching 90% degradation for methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO) and Congo red (CR) at 60, 100 and 60 min, respectively, while for methyl red (MR) almost 90% degradation was achieved at 140 min of UV irradiation. These results demonstrate that it is effective to use Ambrosia ambrosioides root and leaf extracts as a reducing agent for the formation of ZnO NPs, also evidencing their favorable application in the photocatalytic degradation of these four organic dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted to investigate the effect of Melia azedarach seed-mediated ZnO nanoparticles on growth performance, protein utilisation efficiency, haematology and nutritional status in pigs. A total of 48 pigs were allocated to the following six treatments replicated 8 times: Negative Control (NC, No antibiotic), Treatment 2: Positive control (PC) given a conventional antibiotic (Oxytetracycline, 40 mg/kg feed); Treatment 3: Nano-ZnO 300 mg/L (N300ZnO), Treatment 4: Group given 150 mg/L Melia azedarach seed mediated nano-ZnO (N150MA), Treatment 5: Group given 300 mg/L Melia azedarach seed mediated nano-ZnO (N300MA), Treatment 6: Group given 450 mg/L Melia azedarach seed mediated nano-ZnO (N450MA). The experiment was conducted over 7 weeks. Melia azedarach seed-mediated ZnO nanoparticles had no significant effect on growth performance apart from average daily feed intake (ADFI) with treatment 3 having the highest value. It significantly affected protein consumption and growth efficiency but not protein efficiency ratio and specific growth rate. Melia azedarach seed-mediated ZnO nanoparticles had no significant impact on nutritional parameters, serum minerals apart from phosphorus which can negatively affect renal functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The removal of persistent dye pollutants from wastewater streams has drawn a lot of interest by the scientific community and photocatalysis is the most widely accepted practical strategy for addressing environmental contamination. Transition metal oxides are proved to be the most prospective catalysts for efficient and environment-friendly wastewater treatment because of their significant photocatalytic activity, excellent solubility and durability. Here, we describe a simple, eco-sustainable and cost-effective strategy for the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles using Morinda umbellata leaf extract. The phytochemicals such as polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins present in the leaf extract act as reducing and stabilising agents. We investigated the photocatalytic activity of synthesised ZnO nanoparticles to break down organic dyes like Congo red (CR) and Malachite green (MG) in aqueous media. In aqueous solution, at ambient temperature, ZnO nanoparticles showed outstanding photocatalytic degradation efficiency of 98.9% (20 ppm) for the MG dye and 92.8% (10 ppm) for the CR dye at pH values of 10 and 6 respectively, in a short period of time. The optimum catalyst dosage was observed to be 0.1 and 0.125 g for MG and CR respectively. From the scavenger studies using different scavengers, it is confirmed that the superoxide radical is the main reactive species involved in the photocatalytic degradation of MG and CR. The kinetics of photodegradation was also investigated and followed a pseudo-first-order mechanism, with rate constants of 0.0204 min−1 for MG and 0.0123 min−1 for CR in accordance with the Langmuir–Hinshelwood model. The ZnO nanoparticles displayed excellent recycling capability for both dyes and the combined effects of their high adsorption capacity and photodegradation ability of organic dyes make them versatile choice for future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed inverted red quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) with ZnO nanoparticles synthesized in open and closed systems. Wurtzite-structured ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized using potassium hydroxide and zinc acetate dihydrate at various temperatures in the open and closed systems. The particle size increases with increasing synthesis temperature. The ZnO nanoparticles synthesized at 50, 60, and 70 °C in the closed system have an average particle size of 3.2, 4.0, and 5.4 nm, respectively. The particle size is larger in the open system compared to the closed system as the methanol solvent evaporates during the synthesis process. The surface defect-induced emission in ZnO nanoparticles shifts to a longer wavelength and the emission intensity decreases as the synthesis temperature increases. The inverted red QLEDs were fabricated with a synthesized ZnO nanoparticle electron transport layer. The driving voltage of the inverted QLEDs decreases as the synthesis temperature increases. The current efficiency is higher in the inverted red QLEDs with the ZnO nanoparticles synthesized in the closed system compared to the devices with the nanoparticles synthesized in the open system. The device with the ZnO nanoparticles synthesized at 60 °C in the closed system exhibits the maximum current efficiency of 5.8 cd/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kozmetikler, antik çağlardan beri kişisel bakım için kullanılan ürünlerdir. Dünya çapında büyük bir pazar payına sahip ve milyonlarca kişi tarafından düzenli olarak tüketilmektedir. Kozmetik ürünlere olan talebin her geçen gün artması ve teknolojik gelişmelerle birlikte nano ölçekli materyaller içeren nanokozmetikler olarak adlandırılan yeni formülasyonlar ortaya çıkmıştır. Nanokozmetiklerde; nanopartiküller, nanoemülsiyonlar, lipozomlar, niozomlar, mikroemülsiyonlar, katı lipit nanopartikülleri, nanoyapılı lipit taşıyıcılar ve nanoküreler gibi çok sayıda nanotaşıyıcı kullanılmaktadır. Kullanılan nanotaşıyıcıların her biri benzersiz fiziksel, kimyasal ve biyolojik özelliklere sahiptir. Bu özellikler, antioksidan, yaşlanma karşıtı ve daha fazlasını kapsayan yeni kozmetik ürünlerin ortaya çıkmasına neden olmaktadır. Nanokozmetikler, geleneksel kozmetiklere göre aktif maddelerin cilde daha iyi nüfuz etmesi, transdermal kontrollü salınım olasılığı, kararsız aktif maddelerin bozulmasına karşı koruma, formülasyonun daha iyi stabilizasyonu ve düşük toksisite gibi avantajlar sunar. Özellikle yeşil sentez metotları kullanılarak metal/metal oksit nanopartiküllerin sentezi ve nanokozmetiklerde kullanımı, kozmetik sektöründe yenilikçi yaklaşımların ortaya çıkmasını sağlamıştır. Kozmetik sektöründe, güneş koruyucu teknolojisi, özellikle ZnO nanopartiküllerinin kullanımıyla önemli ölçüde geliştirilmiştir. Güneş koruyucu ürünlerde ZnO nanopartiküllerinin etkinliğini arttırmaya yönelik araştırmalar, nanoformülasyonların optimizasyonuna odaklanmıştır. ZnO NP’lerinin cilt ile etkileşimi üzerine yapılan çalışmalar, ürünlerin biyouyumluluğunun ve toksisitesinin değerlendirilmesinde önemli bir rol oynamaktadır. Bu derleme makalesinde nanoteknoloji ile kozmetik endüstrisinin kesişimi ayrıntılı olarak incelenerek, nano ölçekli kozmetik ürünler, ZnO NP’lerinin kozmetik ve güneş koruyucu formülasyonlarındaki uygulamaları genel yaklaşımlarla sunulmaktadır.

Abstract Background Cervical cancer is a significant cause of death among women worldwide, and limited treatment approaches are available for patients with metastatic or recurrent disease. Recently, the combination of nanoparticles (NPs) and radiotherapy (RT) has been shown to be an effective treatment because it enhances the sensitivity of cancer cells to radiation. ZnO NPs stabilized with HSA have become one of the most popular types of metal oxide nanoparticles because of their cost-effectiveness and minimal toxicity. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the radiosensitization effects of HSA/ZnO-NPs on cervical (HeLa) cancer cells under megavoltage (MV) X-ray irradiation. Methods HSA/ZnO-NPs were prepared and characterized by SEM and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) technique. The cytotoxicity of HSA/ZnO NPs was evaluated in HeLa cells via an MTT assay. The radiosensitization effects were investigated under megavoltage X-ray irradiation using a clonogenic survival assay and quantifying γH2AX foci. Moreover, apoptosis and cell cycle analyses were conducted using a Muse™ Cell Analyzer. Results HSA/ZnO-NPs reduced the viability of HeLa cells in a dose-dependent manner, which revealed that the IC50 of HSA/ZnO-NPs was approximately 30 µg/mL. The prepared particles exhibited moderate aggregation regarding hydrodynamic size (approximately 300–400 nm) and a negative zeta potential charge. Compared to the control group, combining HSA/ZnO-NPs with irradiation reduced the colony-forming ability and survival of HeLa cells by approximately 51% and 71% for 2 and 4 Gy, respectively. Correspondingly, the results of the apoptosis analysis showed that combining HSA/ZnO-NPs with irradiation significantly increased apoptosis induction by approximately 39.15% and 77.67% for 2 and 4 Gy, respectively. In addition, we observed a significant increase in cell cycle arrest at the S phase, by about 11.3% and 19.3% for 2 and 4 Gy, respectively. Conclusions HSA/ZnO-NPs could significantly enhance the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation, which suggests the promising potential of cervical cancer radiotherapy under megavoltage X-ray irradiation.

The worldwide problem of antibiotic resistance threatens public health, necessitating the search for antimicrobial agents that are not only effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria but also harmless to the environment. Metal nanoparticles and their oxides are promising agents for battling antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and nanoparticles (NPs) of any size or form can be manufactured in high quality using low-cost and simple-to-follow processes that are friendly to the environment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) that were synthesized using the extract of Juglans regia dried husk, a waste product. Extract components were used as capping and reducing agents in reactions with zinc acetate salt. The properties of ZnO NPs were examined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The antibacterial activity ZnO NPs against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Candida albicans, which were isolated from patients with urinary tract infection, was assessed using the agar well diffusion method. ZnO NPs produced using the aqueous extract of Juglans regia dried husk had a band gap of 3.5 eV, which was determined using UV–visible spectra in the wavelength range of 200–1100 nm. The FTIR spectra of ZnO NPs, acquired in the range of 400–4000 cm−1, contained bands corresponding to specific functional groups of biomolecules and metal oxides. X-ray patterns were acquired in the range of 2θ = 20° to 80°. The crystallite size of produced ZnO NPs, calculated using Scherrer’s formula, was 8.7 nm. The wurtzite hexagonal structure of ZnO NPs was confirmed by the presence of the wide band at 495 to 850 cm−1. The peaks in the XRD pattern corresponded to the (100), (002), (101), (110), (103), and (201) planes. Prepared nanoparticles were semispherical, with a grain diameter of approximately 23 nm and mean roughness (Sa) of 1.65 nm. According to the results of antibacterial testing, ZnO NPs exhibited the greatest growth inhibition effect against Staphylococcus epidermidis, followed by Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Candida albicans (diameter of inhibition zones of 37 ± 0.89, 35.6 ± 0.52, 33.3 ± 1.36, and 35 ± 0.89 mm, respectively). ZnO NPs exhibited significant antibacterial activity owing to their distinct toxicity toward microorganisms. Hence, they can be applied as antimicrobial agents in medicine, surgery, diagnostics, and nanomedicine.

Abstract Nitroaromatic compounds represent a class of highly toxic pollutants discharged into aquatic environments by various industrial activities, posing significant threats to ecological integrity and human health due to their persistent and hazardous nature. In this study, Pd-doped ZnO nanoparticles were investigated as a potential solution for the degradation of nitro organics, offering heightened photocatalytic efficacy and prolonged stability. The synthesis of Pd-doped ZnO NPs was achieved via the hydrothermal method, with subsequent analysis through XRD spectra and XPS confirming successful Pd doping within the ZnO matrix. Characterization through FESEM and HRTEM unveiled the heterogeneous morphologies of both undoped and Pd-doped ZnO nanoparticles. Additionally, UV–vis and PL spectroscopy provided insights into the optical properties, chemical bonding, and defect structures of the synthesized Pd-doped ZnO NPs. Pd doping induces a redshift in ZnO’s absorption spectra, reducing the bandgap from 3.12 to 2.94 eV as Pd concentration rises from 0 to 0.2 wt.%. The photocatalytic degradation, following pseudo-first-order kinetics, achieved 90% nitrobenzene abatement (200 µg/L, pH 7) under visible light within 320 min with a catalyst loading of 16 µg/mL. The photocatalytic efficacy of 0.08 wt% Pd-doped ZnO (k = 0.058 min⁻1) exhibited a 25-fold enhancement compared to bare ZnO (k = 3.1 × 10–4 min-1). Subsequent quenching and ESR experiments identified hydroxyl radicals (OH•) as the predominant active species in the degradation mechanism. Mass spectrometry analysis unveiled potential breakdown intermediates, illuminating a plausible degradation pathway. The investigated Pd-doped ZnO nanoparticles demonstrated reusability for up to five successive treatment cycles, offering a sustainable solution to nitro organics contamination challenges.

Abstract Bryophyllum pinnatum is used to cure infections worldwide. Although the flavonoids of this plant are well known, it is still unknown how much of the plant’s Ag and ZnO nanoparticles are beneficial. In the current research work, silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles were prepared using Bryophyllum pinnatum extract. The synthesized particles were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, SEM, EDS, XRD and FTIR. Synthesized particles were subjected to evaluation of their bactericidal and antifungal activity at various doses. Uv vis spectra at 400 nm corresponding to AgNPs confirmed their synthesis. Strong peaks in the EDS spectra of Ag and ZnO indicate the purity of the sample. The scanning electron microscopic images of ZnONPs showed a size of about 60 nm ± 3 nm, which demonstrated the presence of triangular-shaped ZnO nanoparticles. Green synthesized nanoparticles showed bactericidal activity against both Gram-positive (Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (Agrobacterium tumifaciens, Salmonella setubal, Enterobacter aerogenes) strains. AgNPs proved to be more effective against Gram-negative bacterial strains compared to Gram-positive owing to MIC values (10 ppm and 20 ppm respectively). Whereas, ZnONPs were found more effective against Gram-positive bacteria with lower MIC values (10 ppm) as compared to Gram-negative ones (20 ppm). Also, the synthesized nanoparticles exhibited moderate dose-dependent antifungal activity against tested fungal strains ranging from 10 to 70%. Cytotoxicity of nanoparticles was found significant using Brine shrimp’s lethality assay with IC50 values of 4.09 ppm for AgNPs, 13.72 ppm for ZnONPs, and 24.83 ppm for plant extract. Conclusively, Ag and ZnO nanoparticles were more effective than plant extract and AgNPs had higher activities than those of ZnONPs. Further research is warranted to explore the precise mechanism of action and the potential applications of these nanoparticles in the medical field.

Abstract Cinnamaldehyde (CIN), a harmless bioactive chemical, is used in bio-based packaging films for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties. However, high amounts can change food flavor and odor. Thus, ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) as a supplementary antimicrobial agent are added to gelatin film with CIN. The CIN/ZnO interactions are the main topic of this investigation. FTIR-Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were utilized to investigate CIN/ZnO@gelatin films. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images revealed nanospheres morphology of ZnO NPs, with particle sizes ranging from 12 to 22 nm. ZnO NPs integration increased the overall activation energy of CIN/ZnO@gelatin by 11.94%. The incorporation of ZnO NPs into the CIN@gelatin film significantly reduced water vapour permeability (WVP) of the CIN/ZnO@gelatin film by 12.07% and the oxygen permeability (OP) by 86.86%. The water sorption isotherms of CIN/ZnO@gelatin were described using Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer (GAB) model. The incorporation of ZnO NPs into the CIN@gelatin film reduced monolayer moisture content (M 0) by 35.79% and significantly decreased the solubility of CIN/ZnO@gelatin by 15.15%. The inclusion of ZnO into CIN@gelatin film significantly decreased tensile strength of CIN/ZnO@gelatin by 13.32% and Young`s modulus by 18.33% and enhanced elongation at break by 11.27%. The incorporation of ZnO NPs into the CIN@gelatin film caused a significant decrease of antioxidant activity of CIN/ZnO@gelatin film by 9.09%. The most susceptible organisms to the CIN/ZnO@gelatin film included Candida albicans, Helicobacter pylori, and Micrococcus leutus. The inhibition zone produced by the CIN/ZnO@gelatin film versus Micrococcus leutus was 25.0 mm, which was comparable to the inhibition zone created by antibacterial gentamicin (23.33 mm) and cell viability assessment revealed that ZnO/CIN@gelatin (96.8 ± 0.1%) showed great performance as potent biocompatible active packaging material.

Abstract This study addresses the critical need for efficient and sustainable methods to tackle organic pollutants and microbial contamination in water. The present work aim was to investigate the potential of multi-structured zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) for the combined photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants and antimicrobial activity. A unique fusion of precipitation-cum-hydrothermal approaches was precisely employed to synthesize the ZnO NPs, resulting in remarkable outcomes. The synthesized CTAB/ZnO NPs demonstrated exceptional properties: they were multi-structured and crystalline with a size of 40 nm and possessed a narrow band gap energy of 2.82 eV, enhancing light absorption for photocatalysis. These nanoparticles achieved an impressive degradation efficiency of 91.75% for Reactive Blue-81 dye within 105 min under UV irradiation. Furthermore, their photocatalytic performance metrics were outstanding, including a quantum yield of 1.73 × 10–4 Φ, a kinetic reaction rate of 3.89 × 102 µmol g–1 h–1, a space–time yield of 8.64 × 10–6 molecules photon–1 mg–1, and a figure-of-merit of 1.03 × 10–9 mol L J–1 g–1 h–1. Notably, the energy consumption was low at 1.73 × 10–4 J mol–1, compared to other systems. Additionally, the ZnO NPs exhibited effective antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. This research underscores the potential of tailored ZnO NPs as a versatile solution for addressing both organic pollution and microbial contamination in water treatment processes. The low energy consumption further enhances its attractiveness as a sustainable solution.

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are widely recognized for their distinctive properties and versatile applications across diverse technological domains. However, traditional methods of synthesizing ZnO nanoparticles are characterized by environmental incompatibility, high costs, and the necessity for precise process control to attain the intended particle dimensions and morphology. The present study utilized a chives extract as a sustainable and eco-friendly fuel in the solution combustion synthesized (SCS) process to produce ZnO nanoparticles. The investigation encompassed an analysis of the impact of the fuel-to-oxidizer (F/O) ratio on the synthesized ZnO nanoparticles’ size, morphology, and crystallinity. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that the particle’s crystallite size increased significantly from 12 nm to 42 nm after decreasing the F/O ratio. Furthermore, electron microscopic imagery and FTIR spectroscopy outcomes indicated that modifications in the F/O ratio significantly influenced the SCS process parameters, forming particles with diverse morphologies, including spherical, pyramid-like, hexagonal, and hexagonal plate-like shapes. This research presents a straightforward, cost-efficient, and environmentally sustainable approach for producing ZnO nanoparticles with diverse morphologies, presenting a broad potential for various applications.

In this study, we present a novel method for synthesising zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) from the dried Caesalpinia sappan seeds powder. Comprehensive characterisation using XRD, FTIR, SEM, and EDX techniques was employed to elucidate the surface and morphological properties of these ZnO NPs. We showcase the versatile application of ZnO NPs as heterogeneous catalyst in the synthesis of 5-arylmethylidene-pyrimidin-2,4,6-triones. Notably, this eco-friendly approach eliminates the need for organic solvents, offering a sustainable route to producing 5-arylmethylidene-pyrimidin-2,4,6-triones in high yields. Furthermore, we investigate the corrosion inhibition properties of ZnO NPs on mild steel in 5% sodium chloride solution. Our findings reveal the ZnO NPs’ significant inhibition efficiency against corrosion, promising potential for practical applications. In addition to their chemical applications, we delve into the biological activities of ZnO NPs, including their antibacterial effects against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, anti-oncogenic activity against DU-145 cells, and scavenging activities against oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are commonly used in both commercial and agricultural sectors. As a result, ZnO-NPs are extensively discharged into soil ecosystems, creating a significant environmental issue. Therefore, it is crucial to assess their influence on the soil ecology to ensure its secure and enduring utilization in the future. The exact degree of toxicity associated with ZnO-NPs and their ionic form is still uncertain. To address the challenges, the study used the soil bioindicator earthworm species Eudrilus eugeniae as an experimental model to evaluate the effects of two zinc species (ZnO-NPs and ZnCl2) at 100, 250, 500, and 750 mg kg−1 and control (0 mg kg−1) in garden soil over 28 days. The investigation also examined the impact of exposure on survival, reproduction, neuro-biomarker, avoidance behavior, and accumulation. The highest avoidance rates were 27.5% for ZnO-NP and 37.5% for ZnCl2 at 750 mg kg−1. ZnCl2 treatment reduced juvenile production by 3.73 ± 1.73, while ZnO-NPs showed 4.67 ± 1.15. At 750 mg kg−1, soils with ZnCl2 (63.3%) demonstrated lower survival rates than those with ZnO-NPs (53.3%), likely because of higher Zn ion levels. After 28 days of exposure, ZnCl2 (536.32 ± 11 mol min−1) activated AChE enzymes more than ZnO-NPs (497.7 ± 59 mol min−1) at the same dose, compared to control (145.88 ± 28 to 149.41 ± 23 mol min−1). Nanoparticles and zinc ions bioaccumulated and reacted negatively with the neurotoxic marker AChE, affecting earthworm reproduction and behavior. However, earthworms exposed to ZnCl2 exhibited less intestinal Zn than those exposed to NPs. The present work contradicts the finding that ZnO-NPs have hazardous effects on soil organisms. The results indicate that earthworm E. eugeniae may significantly affect soil metal uptake from metallic nanoparticles (NPs). This may help design NP soil pollution mitigation strategies. The study offers valuable information for establishing a relationship between the environmental toxicity of ZnO-NPs and soil ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]