Layered Double Hydroxides and their Use as Catalysts in Sustainable Processes

Layered Double Hydroxides (LDH) are a class of anionic clays whose structure is based on the brucite, Mg(OH)2, in which some of the divalent cations are replaced by trivalent cations, thus generating a positive charge in the layer. This charge is balanced by the presence of an anion located in the interlayer space. Due to some amazing properties (such as high ion exchange capacity, modification of the inter-lamellar space depending on the embedded anion, uniform dispersion of cations in the network, memory effect, etc.) these materials are viable catalysts in various chemical reactions. The synthesis of these materials is straight forward and can be achieved through a large number of preparation methods, both at laboratory and industrial scale. Since these materials have acid-base properties, they can be successfully used as catalysts in the sustainable synthesis of fine chemicals.

This Research Topic aims to highlight and promote research on new preparation methods of LDH- type materials and their characterization by electronic and spectroscopic techniques (e.g. scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction) or thermal analysis. Most importantly, this topic will spotlight the application of LDHs as acid-base catalysts in the development of novel reactions or improving existing ones in the field of sustainable process chemistry. The use of operando spectroscopy for mechanistic investigation and process optimization is also welcome.

We invite the submission of Original Research, Review, Mini Review, Perspective articles on themes including, but not limited to:
• Layered Double Hydroxides
• LDHs as acid-base catalysts and support materials
• Synthesis of LDH-type materials
• Characterization of LDH-type materials
• LDH applications in fine chemical synthesis
• Operando spectroscopy.