Eco-sustainable biosynthesis of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles using apple extract for multifunctional applications

• Green synthesis of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles using apple extract yields a mixed spinel phase with high surface area (347.04 m2/g) and mesoporosity. • The nanoparticles exhibit 96.88% photo-Fenton degradation of Methylene Blue under visible light and 100% adsorption of Cr3+ and Pb2+ ions. • Mössbauer spectroscopy confirms the presence of only Fe3+ ions in a Zeeman sextet pattern, indicating magnetic ordering. • Statistical analysis (ANOVA and Tukey's HSD) validates that contact time and adsorbent dosage significantly influence pollutant removal efficiency.