Biogenic synthesis of MgO nanoparticles using Arbutus Unedo leaf extract for removal of Bemacid Red from wastewater: Optimizing using BBD-RSM and ANN approach

Magnesium oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using leaf extracts from the Arbutus unedo plant through a sustainable and eco-friendly green synthesis approach. The efficacy of magnesium oxide nanoparticles in removing Bemacid Red dye was assessed by optimizing the removal process using a synergistic approach of artificial neural network and response surface methodology. Magnesium oxide nanoparticles were characterized using X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray fluorescence, confirming their well-defined crystalline structure, successful synthesis of pure MgO with an average particle size of 12.22 nm, and excellent thermal stability. Removal efficiency of 98.34 % was achieved at an adsorbent mass of 0.5 g. L−1, a temperature of 25 °C, an initial dye concentration of 80 mg. L−1, and a contact time of 20 min. The Langmuir adsorption model was selected to describe the adsorption of Bemacid Red onto the surface of magnesium oxide nanoparticles with an R2 value of 0.98, showing a maximum adsorption capacity of 632.91 mg. g−1. These findings underline the potential of magnesium oxide nanoparticles for sustainable wastewater treatment applications in various industrial sectors.