Mango Leaves: A Sustainable Catalyst Revolution in Industry

The research team from the University of Malaya and Aalto University accidentally discovered that mango leaves, when processed through specific hydrothermal treatment, yield compounds with remarkable catalytic properties comparable to precious metals. Named MangoCat-1, this bio-derived catalyst demonstrates 87% efficiency compared to platinum's 92%, but costs less than 5% as much and maintains activity through over 200 reaction cycles. The catalyst's effectiveness stems from naturally occurring manganese and iron nanoparticles embedded in a carbon framework derived from the leaf's components. Beyond cost reduction, MangoCat-1 offers significant environmental benefits by eliminating concerns associated with precious metal catalysts and reducing methane emissions from decomposing biomass. Applications include pharmaceutical manufacturing, water treatment, fuel cell technologies, and potentially CO₂ conversion. This discovery transforms agricultural "waste" into valuable resources, providing economic resilience for farmers while advancing sustainable industrial chemistry and circular economy principles.

https://www.ihadnoclue.com/article/1108585070838054913