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Abstract

In the development of sustainable agriculture, nanotechnology has shown promise in resolving abiotic issues, especially those pertaining to salt stress and heavy metal tolerance. To validate the spherical morphology and crystalline framework of the synthesized nanomaterials, investigators deployed X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Subsequent dimensional analysis via ImageJ software revealed mean diameters of 34.1 nm for the selenium/copper oxide nanoparticles (Se/CuO NPs) and 33.8 nm for the isolated selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs). The production of these particles relied on a highly cost-effective and accessible green synthesis protocol, specifically utilizing an extract derived from Mentha viridis L. (mint leaves). The selenium/copper oxide nanoparticles demonstrated strong antibacterial and antioxidant qualities as well as plant growth-promoting effects when exposed to salt and heavy metals at the same time. Alfalfa plants' morphological characteristics and biochemical markers (pigments, proteins, carbohydrates, proline, and antioxidant enzymes), which normally decline under stressful circumstances, were enhanced by the addition of selenium/copper oxide nanoparticles. In comparison to Se nanoparticles, the Se/CuO nanoparticles demonstrated greater inhibition zones against Enterococcus faecalis bacteria, up to 40 mm, according to antimicrobial testing. Remarkably, lead levels were lowered by 25.12% when Se/CuO nanoparticles were present at a concentration of 50 ppm. Additionally, they showed greater antioxidant capacity than Se nanoparticles. These findings highlight the viability of employing bioengineered bimetallic nanoparticles to improve clover plant resilience and reduce stress.

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