Iron sulfide nanoparticles prepared using date seed extract: Green synthesis, characterization and potential application for removal of ciprofloxacin and chromium

Abstract Iron sulfide (FeS) nanoparticles have emerged as promising materials for a wide range of applications. Despite the growing interest, only conventional wet chemical synthesis approaches for FeS are prevalent, while alternate nontoxic green synthesis methods have not yet been explored. In this study, we demonstrate a novel green approach for the reduction of iron sulfate salt to iron sulfide nanoparticles using aqueous extracts from date tree (Phoenix dactylifera) seeds (ds-FeS nanoparticles). Detailed characterization techniques revealed the formation of spherical FeS nanoparticles with a mean nominal size of 68 nm, while spectroscopy studies confirmed the role of date seed phytochemicals in the synthesis and capping of ds-FeS. We also demonstrate the potential of using ds-FeS for water treatment by efficiently removing two different types of pollutants- ciprofloxacin (pharmaceutical) and hexavalent chromium (heavy metal). Results from this study maybe useful towards further exploration and optimization of eco-friendly synthesis routes for nanoscale iron sulfides.