Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
Utilization of Citrus limetta peel for plant growth and its cellulose fibers incorporated with SPIONs for effective removal of cationic dyes
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Samrot Antony V., Wilson S., Arif Akasha, Purohit Kajal, Shobana Nagarajan, Tharmathass Stalin Dhas, Cypriyana P. J. Jane, Rajalakshmi D., Siva R., Rajan Renuka Remya
Research Articles | Published: 10 August, 2025
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Keywords: n Citrus limettan , SPIONs, Fiber, Adsorption, Plant growth, Environment
Abstract
The study aims to explore the dual application of Citrus limetta (sweet lemon) peels as a phytostimulant for Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea) and as a source of cellulose fiber for the removal of cationic dye. Citrus limetta peels, often considered agricultural waste, are rich in cellulose and bioactive compounds, making them suitable for promoting plant growth and enhancing dye adsorption when processed into cellulose fibers and coated with SPIONs (Superparamagentic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles). This study addresses the pressing need for sustainable and cost effective solutions to agricultural and environmental challenges. C. limetta peels were dried, powdered and characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction analysis (XRD) analyses. Phytostimulant studies were conducted on V. unguiculata to assess the impact of peel powder on shoot length, root length and leaf count. Cellulose fibers extracted from the peels were further characterized and coated with SPIONs. The resulting composite material was tested for its adsorption efficiency in batch experiments for Methylene blue (MB) and Crystal violet (CV) dyes. Key parameters, including adsorbent concentration, adsorbate concentration, pH, and contact time were optimized. Adsorption Isotherms were calculated to understand the mechanisms involved. Application of C. limetta peel powder significantly enhanced growth parameters compared to the control. Additionally, these peels effectively removed Methylene Blue (MB) dye, while cellulose fibers showed high efficiency in removing Crystal Violet (CV) dye. The adsorption of MB by C. limetta peels followed the Langmuir isotherm indicating monolayer adsorption, whereas the adsorption of CV by cellulose fibers adhered to the Tempkin isotherm, suggesting adsorption influenced by heat of sorption. This study highlights the potential of C. limetta peels as a valuable dual purpose resource as a plant growth enhancer and efficient adsorbent for dye removal. The findings underscore the importance of repurposing agricultural waste into valuable materials for sustainable agricultural and environmental applications.
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Author Information
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Manipal University College Malaysia, Melaka, Malaysia