Structural features and antibacterial efficacy of Mg0.99Fe0.01O nanoparticles

In this study, we report the synthesis, structural properties, and antibacterial efficiency of Mg₀.₉₉Fe₀.₀₁O nanoparticles synthesized via the sol-gel method. The introduction of Fe into the MgO matrix significantly altered the structural, optical, and antibacterial properties of the nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the formation of a cubic MgO phase with enhanced crystallinity and reduced crystallite size upon Fe doping. The optical properties were studied through UV-Visible spectroscopy, revealing an increase in the optical band gap, indicating the influence of Fe on the electronic properties of the nanoparticles. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy further confirmed the characteristic bonds associated with metal-oxide vibrations. The antibacterial activity of the synthesized nanoparticles was evaluated against common pathogenic bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, showing a notable zone of inhibition. The results suggest that Fe-doped MgO nanoparticles possess significant antibacterial properties, making them promising candidates for antimicrobial applications. This study highlights the importance of doping metal ions in enhancing the properties of metal oxide nanoparticles and their potential in various biomedical applications.