Microwave-assisted post-synthesis modification of layered simple hydroxides

Abstract

A new method to functionalize layered simple hydroxides by post-synthesis modification is described. A layered cobalt hydroxide was modified with a molecule bearing a free amino group. We show here that it is possible to post-functionalize the metal hydroxide layers by performing in situ microwave assisted reactions with the free amino group, constituting a new appealing strategy for functionalization of layered solids. The obtained compounds are characterized by ancillary techniques and their magnetic properties were investigated, which show that the inorganic magnetic layers are not deeply affected by the post-functionalization process.