Usage of plant extracts in green synthesis of iron nanoparticles

In last 20 years, iron-based nanoparticles have gained attention due their specific properties such as special magnetic properties, availability, versatility, multivalent oxidation states. The most common iron nanoparticles in nature are magnetite (Fe3O4), maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) and hematite (α-Fe2O3). Conventional methods have been shown as a successful in synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles but they are expensive, complex, take a lot of time and create a lot of side products. In order to prevent that, scientists try novel green synthesis models which are rapid, eco- friendly with less waste products and more simple [1]. The aim of this research was to synthesize iron oxide nanoparticles, mainly magnetite, using plant extracts obtained by GRAS (generally recognized as safe) solvents and deep eutectic solvents (DESs). Total phenolic content and antiradical acitivity using DPPH method was measured for prepared extracts. Nanoparticles were synthesized from different iron salts and afterwards characterized by application of appropriate techniques.