Green synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity evaluation of palladium nanoparticles facilitated byPunica granatumpeel extract

In the present report, we describe the biosynthesis of palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) using nontoxic and renewablePunica granatumpeel extract. Synthesis of PdNPs was monitored via color change and confirmed by Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) revealed the active role of phytochemicals derived fromPunica granatumin reduction and stabilization of nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed that the synthesized PdNPs have face-centered cubic crystalline structure. The morphological characterizations carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) revealed that PdNPs are spherical and well distributed and the average size of PdNPs is 22 +/- 5 nm. Then, the catalytic activity of PdNPs was tested successfully in the reduction of 4-nitrophenol. Biosynthesis of PdNPs using pomegranate peel extracts was remarked as an alternative low-cost and eco-friendly green method alternative to the conventional chemical and physical methods.