Template-directed materials synthesis and self-assembly of functional layered double hydroxide materials

Abstract

A major focus of our research is the synthesis of layered materials such as layered double hydroxides (LDH), layered niobates and cationic clays. The preparation method has fundamental influence on the chemical composition and structure of the materials which define its properties and performance. In the search for the best properties of LDHs, aiming drug delivery and monitoring of biological substances marker of disease by electrochemical sensing, it is necessary to explore new synthetic strategies that allow the control of nucleation and architecture of these materials. In recent years, the interest in the use of bioinspired methods such as template-assisted synthesis in the preparation of materials is growing. Such inspiration requires knowledge of mechanisms involved in biomineralization, a fascinating subject and largely unexplored by research groups in Brazil. In this sense, this project proposes to employ template-directed synthesis for isolation of functional LDHs with composition, structure, morphology and controlled particle size, as well as providing the conditions for achieving a high degree of particles dispersion in aqueous medium. We also intend to prepare nanostructured films of graphene and LDHs on conductive substrate by self-assembly, for development of electrochemical sensors. The choice of the two layered materials for preparation of interstratified composite devices has as basis the possibility of synergistic interaction, arising from the connection between graphene (a material with good electrical conductivity and mechanical strength) and LDH (a material that show interesting chemical reactivity). (AU)