In the study, biogenic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were used for the photocatalytic degradation of triphenylmethane dyes Victoria blue B (VBB) and R (VBR). The process was found to result in an approximate degradation of 65 and 52%, respectively, for VBB and VBR within a period of 8 h. The relative rate of photocatalytic degradation of VBB and VBR was identified to be 0.0195 ± 0.0031/min and 0.0295 ± 0.0025/min, respectively, by using the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model. By using the Vigna unguiculata model system, the degradation products were demonstrated to have non-toxic effect. Moreover, the less toxic nature of AuNPs used for dye removal highlights its feasibility for large-scale application. Hence, the AuNPs-based photocatalytic dye degradation as described in the study is cost-effective, rapid and environment-friendly.
Keywords: Gold nanoparticle; Photocatalysis; Phytotoxicity; UV–Vis spectroscopy; Victoria blue.