Phytonanoparticles as Green Catalysts for the Degradation of Persistent Organic Pollutants

Dipak S. Dalal is a Professor and Director at the School of Chemical Sciences, Kavayitri Bahinabai Chaudhari North Maharashtra University (KBCNMU), Jalgaon, Maharashtra, India. He obtained his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the same university and has over 16 years of academic experience. He teaches postgraduate courses in Organic Synthesis, Green Chemistry, Catalysis, and Environmentally Benign Reactions. His research spans Supramolecular Chemistry, Organic Solar Cells, Heterocyclic Chemistry, High-Energy Materials, Antitubercular Agents, Phytoremediation, and Waste Management. He has completed a major government-sponsored project on supramolecular catalysis and is presently working on another government-funded project. His academic excellence has been recognized through multiple awards, including the DST Fast Track Young Scientist Award, and the KBCNMU Publication Award in 2014, 2015, and 2016.

Prakash Baburao Rathod is an Assistant Professor at the School of Chemical Sciences, Kavayitri Bahinabai Chaudhari North Maharashtra University (KBCNMU), Jalgaon, Maharashtra, India. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and is actively involved in teaching and research in the areas of materials chemistry and catalysis. His research primarily focuses on the synthesis and application of phytonanoparticles, functionalized magnetic nanomaterials, and polymer-based nanocomposites for use in catalysis, environmental remediation, and sustainable chemical processes. He has significantly contributed to green chemistry through the development of magnetically retrievable nanocatalysts and polymer-encapsulated nanoparticles that enable efficient and eco-friendly transformations. His recent research includes innovative approaches to nanoparticle synthesis, such as the use of γ-irradiated chitosan to enhance the antimicrobial activity of silver nanocomposites and the development of polymeric nanoassemblies for carbon–carbon coupling reactions. Through his continued research efforts, he is advancing the fields of nanotechnology, catalysis, and sustainable chemistry, addressing critical challenges in both environmental and industrial applications.