Intercalation of Iron (III) hexacyano complex in a Ni, Al hydrotalcite-like compound

The product obtained by the intercalation of hexacyanoferrate(III) inside a Ni, Al hydrotalcite-like compound (Htlc), has been characterised using XRD, FT-IR, Raman and XAS spectroscopy. The intercalation was carried out by anionic exchange of the originally existing chloride ions. The combined use of those techniques gives more insight on the insertion chemistry of Htlcs. Extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectra of the intercalated Htlc demonstrated that the native structure was stable during the iron complex insertion, whereas the exchange process occurred with a partial reduction of hexacyanoferrate(III). Both Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy pointed out the concomitant formation of K2FeIINi(CN)6 and K1.5FeIIINi(CN)6. The effect of ageing on the intercalated product is also addressed.