Bioinorganic clays: synthesis and characterization of amino- and polyamino acid intercalated layered double hydroxides

Negatively charged amino acids (aspartic acid, glutamic acid) and a related polymer, poly(α,β-aspartate), have been intercalated within the gallery spaces of layered double hydroxides. Synthesis of these bioinorganic nanocomposites was achieved via co-precipitation involving simultaneous formation of the inorganic layers and intercalation of the anionic species. In situ thermal polymerization of pre-intercalated aspartate monomers affords a second route to the poly(α,β-aspartate)-containing hybrid material.