Baytar, OrhanEkinci, ArzuKutluay, SinanCanpolat, GurbetSahin, OmerHoroz, Sabit2024-12-242024-12-2420242510-15602510-1579https://doi.org/10.1007/s41779-024-01101-yhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12604/6277This study presents an innovative method for the synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) and iron-doped zinc oxide (Fe-doped ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs), employing extracts derived from tobacco stems. The environmentally friendly green synthesis process here represents the novelty of production and applications. Various analytical techniques including FT-IR, XRD, EDX, SEM and TEM were used to characterise ZnO and Fe-doped ZnO NPs. The study reveals that 1% Fe-doped ZnO NPs demonstrate markedly improved photocatalytic performance, attributed to a narrower band gap and enhanced charge separation. These NPs effectively promote the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue, a promising approach for wastewater treatment and pollution control. Furthermore, the investigation of Fe-doped ZnO NPs in solar cells demonstrates their potential to substantially improve solar energy conversion efficiency. This novel approach paves the way for sustainable and eco-friendly advancements in both photocatalysis and photovoltaic technologies.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessGreen synthesisZinc oxide nanoparticlesIron-doped zinc oxidePhotocatalysisphotovoltaicsArticle60516971708N/AWOS:001340249400002Q22-s2.0-8520718894410.1007/s41779-024-01101-y