[Dataset] Sustainable nanohybrid systems: Physiochemical properties of Gracilaria corticota extract-mediated copper oxide nanoparticle-loaded starch scaffolds

This dataset delivers a comprehensive evaluation of starch-based nanoscaffolds reinforced with copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) synthesized using Gracilaria corticota, a red algal extract, as a sustainable reducing and capping agent. UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) confirms CuO NP formation through distinct plasmon resonance peaks, while Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) identifies bioactive compounds (e.g., sulfated polysaccharides, phenolics) in the algal extract responsible for nanoparticle synthesis and stabilization, alongside molecular interactions (e.g., hydrogen bonding) between starch matrices and CuO NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) validates the crystalline phase and purity of the nanoparticles, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals the nanoscaffold’s interconnected porous structure, surface topography, and uniform CuO NP dispersion. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) demonstrates enhanced thermal stability of the nanocomposite, attributing improved degradation resistance to nanoparticle reinforcement. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) profiles nanoparticle size distribution, polydispersity, and colloidal stability, crucial for assessing biocompatibility and application suitability. The dataset underscores the role of Gracilaria corticota in enabling eco-friendly CuO NP synthesis while optimizing scaffold performance, including mechanical strength, thermal resilience, and controlled biodegradation. These nanohybrid systems exhibit promise for sustainable biomedical applications, such as tissue engineering scaffolds, antimicrobial wound dressings, or eco-friendly packaging materials. By integrating green nanotechnology with advanced physicochemical characterization, this work highlights scalable strategies for designing low-toxicity, high-performance biomaterials. Researchers can leverage this multidisciplinary dataset to refine algal-mediated synthesis protocols, correlate structural properties (e.g., porosity, crystallinity) with functional outcomes, and advance circular economy principles in nanomaterial development. The findings bridge marine bioresource utilization with material innovation, emphasizing environmentally conscious alternatives to conventional synthetic nanocomposites.