Synthesis and characterization of hybrid materials based on layered double hydroxides and bioactive organic species

Abstract

Intercalation Chemistry is an area in which the development of materials of pharmacological interest has been increasingly exploited. In this context, layered double hydroxides (LDH) emerge as potential carriers in which anionic species of biological concern can be confined. LDH have several characteristics required for a good therapeutical vehicle, emphasizing the biocompatibility and biodegradability. In addition to these important requirements, LDH can promote the controlled release of the confined species, given their susceptibility to changes in pH and the large range of ions that can be inserted between the layers. This research project aims to study the synthesis parameters and the chemical, structural and spectroscopic characterization of LDH with composition M2+/Al3+ (where M = Mg or Zn) and molar ratio equal to 3, intercalated with anions derived from folic, carminic and rosmarinic acids (whose properties allow interesting pharmacological applications). The synthesis will be carried out using the method of co-precipitation in constant pH, starting from chlorides of the metal ions and an aqueous solution of the anion to be intercalated, verifying the influence of pH, reaction time and the molar ratio anion/Al3+ on the obtained materials. After synthesis, the materials may undergo heat treatment and then be isolated. The materials obtained will be characterized by X-ray diffraction, elemental and thermal analysis, vibrational spectroscopy and measurements of particle size and Zeta potential. (AU)