Preparation and characterization of trans-RhCl(CO)(TPPTS)2-intercalated layered double hydroxides

trans-RhCl(CO)(TPPTS)2 (TPPTS=tris(m-sulfonatophenyl)phosphine) has been intercalated into Zn–Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs) by the method of ion exchange. The structure, composition and thermal stability of the composite material have been characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared and 31P solid-state magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, elemental analysis, thermogravimetry, and differential thermal analysis. The geometry of trans-RhCl(CO)(TPPTS)2 was fully optimized using the PM3 semiempirical molecular orbital method, and a schematic model for the intercalated species has been proposed. The thermal stability of trans-RhCl(CO)(TPPTS)2 is significantly enhanced by intercalation, which suggests that such materials may have prospective application as the basis of a supported catalyst system for the hydroformylation of higher olefins.