Green Biosynthesis of Nanoparticles and Modification of Carbon Electrodes Using Curcuma Longa Tuber Powder versus Punica Granatum L., Pomegranate to Detect Heavy Metals (Pb and Cd)

The following article describes an inquiry-based learning experience with green synthesis of Ag nanoparticles. This is a vastly developing area that aims to prevent the use of toxic and flammable reducing agents and capping agents by instead using Curcuma longa tuber (turmeric powder) and Punica Granatum L., (pomegranate). These green synthesized nanoparticles are utilized to modify bare carbon electrodes to detect heavy metals such as Lead and Cadmium by Square Wave Anodic Stripping Voltammetry (SWASV) due to the nanoparticle’s catalytic activity. The Curcuma longa tuber powder and the pomegranate were utilized to synthesize the Ag nanoparticles, which acted simultaneously as a reductant and stabilizer. The characterization of the nanoparticles were examined by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).