Green Synthesis of NiO/CuO Nanocomposites with a Snow Flake-Like Shape Morphology, Biological and Photocatalytic Activities Utilizing Vitex Negundo Leaf Extract

The sustainable synthesis of NiO/CuO nanocomposite was successfully achieved by utilising Vitex negundo leaf extract, presenting an environmentally friendly approach to pollution prevention. The nanocomposites were systematically prepared in varying compositions. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analyses confirmed the crystalline structure and identified the functional groups present within the material. Additionally, ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopic analysis was conducted to determine the characteristic absorbance peaks and corresponding band gaps. Electron microscopy analysis demonstrated that the NiO/CuO nanocomposite displays a distinctive snowflake-like morphology. The antibacterial efficacy of the synthesised nanocomposite was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterobacter. Furthermore, a red blood cell (RBC) membrane stabilisation assay evaluated the potential anti-inflammatory effects. The photocatalytic efficiency of the nanocomposite was investigated using methylene blue (MB) dye under visible light irradiation. The green-synthesized material exhibited significant antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and photocatalytic activities.