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As the population increases, water scarcity has become a major concern. Therefore, the removal and detection of heavy metals and dyes are essential in modern society. This investigation aimed to authenticate the augmented photocatalytic and sensing capabilities of synthesized ZnO and Cu-doped ZnO (Cu–ZnO) nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were synthesized using a simple precipitation technique. The structural and morphological charecteristics of ZnO and Cu–ZnO nanoparticles were assessed through a comprehensive characterization techniques (XRD, XPS, HRTEM). According to the characterization findings, the average crystallite size was determined to be 10 nm for ZnO and 12.8 nm for Cu–ZnO, exhibiting a well-defined crystalline structure. The investigation of photocatalytic activity conducted by varying concentrations of synthesized nanomaterials, demonstrates an improved decomposition of Amaranth dye 93.32%, attributed to the presence of Cu as a dopant. The effectiveness of the synthesized nanomaterials in detecting lead has been demonstrated through multiple electrochemical studies by utilizing a three-electrode system. The electrochemical investigations revealed that the incorporation of Cu into ZnO nanoparticles effectively enhanced the sensing capacity for detecting lead when compared to the sensing capacity of ZnO nanoparticles.

This research highlights the significant role of green synthesis in the production of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles by using natural extracts as reducing agents. These nanoparticles have shown promising potential in two key applications: photocatalytic degradation of industrial dye effluents and electrochemical sensing of ciprofloxacin. The study found that Arundinaria gigantea leaf extract is an effective reducing agent for synthesizing well-defined crystalline structure CuO nanoparticles, with an average size of 36 nm. The CuO nanoparticles have demonstrated high efficiency in photocatalytic applications, effectively degrading AR88 dye under UV irradiation, making them a viable solution for eco-friendly water purification. Additionally, when incorporated into an electrochemical sensor, these CuO nanoparticles have improved sensitivity and selectivity in detecting ciprofloxacin in aqueous solutions with high accuracy and precision. This study emphasizes the versatility and effectiveness of green-synthesized CuO nanoparticles for various practical uses.