Synthesis and characterization of Mn intercalated Mg-Al hydrotalcite

Mn intercalated hydrotalcite was prepared using a reconstruction method. And Mn intercalation was confirmed by XRD, FTIR, and thermal analyses. The different valences of Mn were present as determined by XPS. Calcination slightly promoted the isomorphic replacement of Mn2+ and Mn3+ for Mg2+ and Al3+, especially the replacement of Mn2+ for Mg2+ and Al3+, and to some extent, reduced Mn intercalation. Ultrasonic treatment significantly increased Mn intercalation in permanganate form (Mn7+), and promoted the replacement of Mn2+ for Mg2+ and Al3+. XRF analysis showed that ultrasonic treatment decreased the unbalanced layer charge of Mn intercalated hydrotalcite, while prolonged calcination increased it. These results may provide guidance on the preparation and application of Mn intercalated hydrotalcite. Extended calcination time and ultrasonic vibration increased the interlayer spacing of hydrotalcite, as a result of reduction in layer charge. As the layer charge was not completely balanced after Mn intercalation, a certain amount of CO32− was re-adsorbed into the interlayer space. Mn-hydrotalcites with different layer charges, different contents of Mn with varying valences are expected to have different performances in the process of adsorption, degradation, and catalysis.