Reversible hydration and aqueous exfoliation of the acetate-intercalated layered double hydroxide of Ni and Al: Observation of an ordered interstratified phase

► Ni/Al-acetate LDHs were synthesized by HPFS method by hydrolysis of acetamide. ► Intercalated acetate ion shows reversible hydration with variation in humidity. ► An ordered interstratified phase was observed during hydration/dehydration cycle. ► A solution type equilibrium is observed between hydration-dehydration phases. ► These LDHs undergo facile aqueous exfoliation.