Redox properties of LDH microcrystals coated with a catechol-bearing phosphonate derived from dopamine

The surface of Zn–Al-chloride LDH microcrystals (LDH = Layered Double Hydroxides) was activated by grafting a redox active catechol bearing bis-phosphonate obtained by dopamine derivatization. The obtained phosphonate uniformly coats the LDH crystals surface and the catechol groups are exposed. The redox activity of the catechol was employed for the quick and easy synthesis of Gold NPs, which are supported onto the LDH microcrystal surface. The synthetic procedures and the complete characterization of the hybrid system are reported.