Layered double hydroxide based bionanocomposites

Abstract Layered double hydroxides (LDH), also identified as anionic clays, have attracted much consideration due to their excellent ion exchange capacities, shape memory effect and ability to intercalate anions. LDH have been used in the different fields of applications such as biomedical, sensors and detectors, energy storage, novel and advanced functional materials etc. On other hand, biopolymers are environment friendly, fully degradable and sustainable materials, so they can be easily composed without harming nature. Degradation of biopolymers involves loss of structural, mechanical and chemical properties of the polymer and converting into biodegradable compounds which are helpful to the environment. Thus, bionanocomposites made from LDH and different biopolymers would have synergistic effect on their properties, which are necessary for actual applications. This review article deals with the preparation, properties and applications of bionanocomposites made from LDH and biopolymers such as heparin, deoxyribose nucleic acid, vitamin C and E, cellulose, chitosan, polylactic acid, different anionic biopolymers and starch.