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.