Microwave-assisted in situ synthesis of copper-containing nanoparticles on wool using pistachio hull extract for durable antibacterial and colored textiles

There is a growing research impetus to develop green-synthesized nanomaterials that impart dual aesthetic and biocidal properties to textiles in a single, sustainable process. Also, A circular economy approach by valorizing abundant bio-waste into a resource is crucial for creating high-performance textiles. This study introduces a novel, one-pot microwave-assisted process for the simultaneous dyeing and in-situ phytofabrication of copper-containing nanostructures like Cu, CuO, and Cu 2 O (Cu-NPs) on wool fibers, utilizing Pistacia vera L. hull skin extract (PHSE) as a natural colorant and a reducing/capping agent. The synthesis was optimized by varying the PHSE-to-Cu ions precursor ratios. UV-Vis and DLS analyses confirmed the successful formation of stable Cu-NPs, while FTIR spectroscopy identified key phytochemicals in PHSE responsible for bioreduction. Surface characterization via FESEM and EDX confirmed the successful deposition of Cu-NPs on the wool fiber surface. The process transformed the initial yellow hue imparted by PHSE into a durable green shade, with the optimized formulation (PHSE: Cu = 1:4) significantly enhancing color strength (K/S value increase to 5.82). Furthermore, the treated wool fibers exhibited exceptional antibacterial activity, achieving a 97% reduction against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. This green, efficient, and scalable strategy valorizes agricultural waste to produce multifunctional textiles with dual aesthetic and high-performance properties, offering a compelling alternative to conventional chemical processes.