Layered Double Hydroxides (LDH): A multifunctional versatile system for nanocomposites

Layered Double Hydroxides gained tremendous research efforts in the last years as a filler for polymer nanocomposites similar to montmorillonite in order to increase barrier properties, improve mechanical properties and reduce flammability. Due to its broad variety in composition and possibility to organically modify the layers LDH might be used in very different applications. This summary intends to show possibilities of integration of additional functionalities apart from the benefits of LDH as platelet decomposing like the classical flame retardant magnesium hydroxide, by selecting a specific metal combination, by fine tuning structural features and by selecting an organic modification with a functionality thus providing a true added value to filler for nanocomposite applications.