Organic chemical conversions catalyzed by intercalated layered double hydroxides (LDHs)

In this review we examine recent advances in the use of crystalline layered double hydroxides (LDHs) intercalation compounds as catalysts for selected organic chemical conversions. Simple anion exchanged forms of LDHs exhibit catalytic properties toward organic halide exchange reactions, whereas others exhibit acid/base character as revealed by the catalytic conversions of 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol (MBOH) as a probe molecule. The catalytic properties of more complex intercalates also are reviewed, especially LDH compositions interlayered by pillaring polyoxometalates and metallo macrocycles, specifically, metallo-phthalocyanines and -porphyrins.