Advances in layered double hydroxide (LDH)-based elastomer composites

This article reviews the advances in layered double hydroxide (LDH) materials and the synthesis of LDH-based elastomer composites. The potential of tuning the structure of LDH materials for desired properties and applications has attracted both academic and industrial interest in recent years. The modification of LDH materials and the use of such materials in the synthesis of composites with different elastomer matrices have been critically analyzed. Emphasis has been given to the use of Mg-Al LDHs and Zn-Al LDHs with different elastomers. The use of modified LDHs with elastomers substantially improves their mechanical, thermal and optical properties. Even “smart properties” of elastomers, such as reversible thermotropic optical characteristics, have been realized with the use of LDH-based multifunctional additives in rubber formulations. The flame retardance of some elastomer composites has also been enhanced with the use of modified LDHs. The possibility of replacing ZnO with LDH during rubber compounding has also been discussed, which would lead to drastic interventions in the well-established rubber processing technologies. LDH materials have also been reported to be biocompatible. Therefore, among the various possible applications of LDHs in different material development processes, their use in rubber technology offers the potential for environmentally friendly rubber products, even tires. Throughout this article, the structure, synthesis, properties and applications of elastomer/(LDH) composites are discussed, including suitable examples taken from the relevant literature.