Green synthesis of Cu@TiO2 via cedrus deodara leaf extract: A novel composite with high photocatalytic and antibacterial activity

Abstract Reported work is based upon the synthesis of Cu@TiO2 NPs in a suitable way using cedrus deodara extract, which is easily available, and have abundance of phenolic content in it. This type of approach not only saves time but also it is chemical free and have nontoxic effects on environment. The doping of TiO2 with metals especially copper can be used as strong candidate for the energy band gap engineering and reducing recombination of photogenerated exciton (electron/hole) pairs. The gradual mixing of copper dopant in titanium dioxide lessens the energy band gap and reduces recombination rate as well. Characterization studies of green synthesized Cu@ TiO2 nano-sized particles depicted prominent enhancement in photocatalytic and antibacterial activity that can be potentially applied for methylene blue dye degradation and zone of inhibition to save aquatic and human life on the planet earth. Use of plant extract makes the synthesis approach reliable, green and rapid.