LAYERED DOUBLE HYDROXIDE PARTICLES IN HYDROGEL MATRICES

Abstract

Exemplary layered double hydroxides (LDHs) may comprise a compound of formula Mg4−yAlXy(OH)2, wherein X is Mn+2, Cu+2, Zn+2, or Fe+2, and 0.01≤y≤1. Exemplary layered double hydroxide hydrogels (LDH-gels) may comprise a hydrogel and at least one LDH. Exemplary hydrogels may comprise polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) or polyacrylamide (PAAm). Exemplary LDH-gels may comprise at least one LDH comprising a compound of formula Mg4−yAlXy(OH)2, wherein X is Mn+2, Cu+2, Zn+2, or Fe+2, and 0.01≤y≤1.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and layered double hydroxide hydrogels (LDH-gels). Exemplary LDH-gels may be particularly suited for use in various filters for onsite water treatment systems (OWTSs). For example, LDH-gels may be incorporated into filters to selectively remove phosphorus-and/or nitrogen-containing species, such as phosphate (PO₄³⁻) and/or nitrate (NO₃⁻) anions.

INTRODUCTION

Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) pollution of waterways may cause eutrophication and has detrimental impacts on the environment, human health, and the economy. A significant source of nutrient pollution is onsite water treatment systems (OWTSs).

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a layered double hydroxide (LDH) is disclosed. The LDH may comprise a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂ wherein X is Mn⁺², Cu⁺², Zn⁺², or Fe⁺², and 0.01≤y≤1. In some instances, X may be Zn⁺². In some instances, X may be Fe⁺². In some instances, 0.25y≤1. In some instances, y may be 0.2. In some instances, y may be 0.4. In some instances, y may be 1.

In another aspect, a layered double hydroxide hydrogel (LDH-gel) is disclosed. The LDH-gel may comprise a hydrogel. The hydrogel may comprise polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), polyacrylamide (PAAm), or combinations thereof. The LDH-gel may comprise at least one layered double hydroxide (LDH). The at least one LDH may comprise a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂ wherein X is Mn⁺², Cu⁺², Zn⁺², or Fe⁺², and 0.01≤y≤1. In some instances, X may be Zn⁺². In some instances, X may be Fe⁺². In some instances, 0.25 y≤1. In some instances, y may be 0.2. In some instances, y may be 1. The LDH-gel may comprise more than one LDH comprising a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂. In some instances the LDH-gel may comprise a first LDH compound comprising a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂ where X is Zn⁺² and a second LDH comprising a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂ where X is Fe⁺². The LDH-gel may be in the form of a bead.

In another aspect, a method of preparing layered double hydroxide (LDH) particles is disclosed. The method may comprise preparing a metal ion solution comprising magnesium chloride (MgCl₂), aluminum chloride (AlCl₃), and a transition metal chloride (XCl₂). The transition metal chloride may be MnCl₂, CuCl₂, ZnCl₂, or FeCl₂. The method may further comprise adding a 2 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to the metal ion solution to form a first suspension comprising the LDH particles. The method may further comprise centrifuging the first suspension and decanting a first supernatant or filtering the LDH particles. The method may further comprise exposing the LDH particles to a 2 M sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution to form a second suspension comprising the LDH particles. The method may further comprise centrifuging the second suspension and decanting a second supernatant or filtering the LDH particles. The method may further comprise washing the LDH particles. Washing may comprise a first washing step, a second washing step, and a third washing step. The first washing step may comprise washing the LDH particles with a solution comprising sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃). The second and third washing steps may comprise washing the LDH particles with pure water. The method may further comprise drying the LDH particles. The method may further comprise calcining the LDH particles. Calcining the LDH particles may occur at a temperature of 350° C. to 550° C.

In another aspect, a method of making a layered double hydroxide gel (LDH-gel) is disclosed. The method may comprise forming a mixture. In some instances, the method may comprise forming the mixture in water and adding the mixture in water to an oil to form a water-in-oil emulsion. The oil may be paraffin oil. The mixture may comprise a monomer, a crosslinker, a catalyst, and LDH particles. The monomer may be acrylamide (AAm) or polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA). The PEGDA monomer may have an average molecular weight of 575 g/mol. N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) may be the crosslinker. N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TEMED) may be the catalyst. The method may further comprise adding an initiator to the mixture while stirring the mixture. Ammonium persulfate (APS) may be the initiator. The method may further comprise allowing the mixture to form a solid. The method may further comprise washing the solid. In some instances, after allowing the mixture to form a solid, and before washing the solid, the solid may be broken into pieces.

In another aspect, a filter is disclosed. The filter may comprise an LDH-gel.

Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A schematically shows exemplary layered double hydroxide hydrogel (LDH-gel) beads in a filter-cartridge configured for phosphorus (P) removal.

FIG. 1B schematically shows an exemplary LDH-gel bead where layered double hydroxide (LDH) particles are immobilized within a cross-linked hydrogel network. The hydrogels hold the LDH particles in place while maintaining their functionality and are highly water permeable.

FIG. 1C schematically shows an exemplary LDH composition having crystalline layers with target anions adsorbed at LDH surface sites and within the LDH interlayer space.

FIG. 2A schematically shows a high crosslinking density polymer network.

FIG. 2B schematically shows a low crosslinking density polymer network.

FIG. 2C schematically shows an exemplary LDH-gel, which has a crosslinked polymer network and contains LDH particles.

FIG. 3A shows the X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) pattern of an exemplary Mg₄Fe LDH.

FIG. 3B shows the X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) pattern of an exemplary Mg₄Al LDH.

FIG. 4A shows the XPS O 1s spectrum for an exemplary as-synthesized Mg₄Al LDH. FIG. 4B shows the XPS O 1s spectrum for an exemplary calcined Mg₄Al LDH.

FIG. 5A shows the C 1s peaks in the XPS spectrum of the Mg₄Al LDH when an exemplary LDH is only precipitated with carbonate (CO₃⁻) anions.

FIG. 5B shows the Cl 2p peaks in the XPS spectrum of the Mg₄Al LDH when an exemplary LDH is only precipitated with carbonate (CO₃⁻) anions.

FIG. 5C shows the C 1s peaks in the XPS spectrum of the Mg₄Al LDH when an exemplary LDH is precipitated in the presence of only hydroxide (OH) anions.

FIG. 5D shows the Cl 2p peaks in the XPS spectrum of the Mg₄Al LDH when an exemplary LDH is precipitated in the presence of only hydroxide (OH⁻) anions.

FIG. 6A is a photograph of exemplary freshly precipitated Mg₃AlX LDHs where X=Zn⁺², Cu⁺², Mn⁺², and Fe⁺², before drying.

FIG. 6B is a photograph of the freshly precipitated Mg₃AlX LDHs of FIG. 6A, after drying at a drying temperature of 105° C.

FIG. 7 shows the XRD patterns of Mg₃AlX LDHs where X=Zn⁺², Cu⁺², Mn⁺², and Fe⁺², after drying (drying temperature=105° C.). Asterisks (*) indicate secondary oxide phases (e.g., manganese (II, III) oxide (Mn₃O₄) and copper (II) oxide (CuO)).

FIG. 8 shows the XRD patterns of exemplary Mg₃AlX LDHs where X=Zn⁺², Cu⁺², Mn⁺², and Fe⁺², post-calcination (calcining temperature=500° C.). Asterisks (*) indicate secondary oxide phases.

FIG. 9A shows the XRD pattern of Mg₃AlCu LDH samples after drying at various drying temperatures (20° C., 60° C., and 105° C.). Asterisks (*) indicate secondary oxide phases.

FIG. 9B shows the XRD patterns of Mg₃AlCu LDHs dried at the various drying temperatures (20° C., 60° C., and 105° C.), followed by calcination at 500° C. for 6 hours. Asterisks (*) indicate secondary oxide phases.

FIG. 10A shows the XRD patterns of aged, dried, and calcined exemplary Mg₃AlCu LDH samples.

FIG. 10B shows the XRD patterns of aged, dried, and calcined exemplary Mg₄Al LDH samples.

FIG. 11 shows the XRD patterns for calcined exemplary Mg₃AlCu LDH samples aged in stormwater for a time period of 24 hours and 6 weeks.

FIG. 12A is a photograph of various freshly precipitated exemplary Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where X=Fe⁺² and y is 0.2, 0.4, and 1 (Fe-5, Fe-10, and Fe-25 respectively).

FIG. 12B is a photograph of various freshly precipitated exemplary Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where X=Cu⁺² and y is 0.2, 0.4, and 1 (Cu-5, Cu-10, and Cu-25 respectively).

FIG. 12C is a photograph of exemplary Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs post-drying at 105° C., where X=Fe⁺² (top) and Cu⁺² (bottom) and y is 0.2, 0.4, and 1 (right to left).

FIG. 12D is a photograph of exemplary Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs post calcining at 500° C., where X=Fe⁺² and y is 0.2, 0.4, and 1 (left to right).

FIG. 12E is a photograph of exemplary Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs post calcining at 500° C., where X=Cu⁺² and y is 0.2, 0.4, and 1 (left to right).

FIG. 13A shows the XRD patterns of calcined Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where X=Cu⁺² and y is 0.2 (Cu-5), 0.4 (Cu-10), and 1 (Cu-25). Asterisks (*) indicate secondary oxide phases (CuO). Carets ({circumflex over ( )}) indicate sodium chloride (NaCl) impurities.

FIG. 13B shows the XRD patterns of calcined Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where X=Zn⁺² and y is 0.2 (Zn-5), 0.4 (Zn-10), and 1 (Zn-25). Asterisks (*) indicate secondary oxide phases (ZnO). Carets ({circumflex over ( )}) indicate sodium chloride (NaCl) impurities.

FIG. 14 shows the apparatus used for assessing LDH-gels regarding total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN) and nitrate (NO₃⁻) removal from 100 mL of synthetic stormwater (“SSW”).

FIGS. 15A-15C show the synthetic stormwater (SSW) performance results for exemplary LDH-gels having various LDH particle loadings (1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). The exemplary LDH-gels tested contain equal amounts of Fe-5 (Mg3 8AlFe0.2) and Zn-5 (Mg_3.8AlZn_0.2) LDH particles.

FIG. 15A shows the percent total nitrogen (TN) removal for exemplary LDH-gels prepared from acrylamide (AAm) and polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) monomers at various LDH particle loadings (1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Starting value for total nitrogen (TN): 4.4-5.4 ppm.

FIG. 15B shows the percent nitrate (NO₃⁻) removal for exemplary LDH-gels prepared from acrylamide (AAm) and polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) monomers at various LDH particle loadings (1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Starting value for nitrate (NO₃⁻): 0.24-0.45 ppm.

FIG. 15C shows the percent total phosphorus (TP) removal for exemplary LDH-gels prepared from acrylamide (AAm) and polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) monomers at various LDH particle loadings (1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Starting value for total phosphorus (TP): 2.98-3.42 ppm.

FIG. 16A is a photograph of exemplary polyacrylamide (PAAm) hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer (AAm) to crosslinker (monomer: crosslinker=200:1. 500:1, 750:1, and 1000:1).

FIG. 16B a photograph of exemplary polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer (PEGDA having an average molecular weight of 575 g/mol) to crosslinker (monomer: crosslinker=50:1, 100:1, 200:1, and 500:1).

FIG. 17A is a photograph of a side view of exemplary LDH-gel monomer solutions with different LDH particle loadings (0.1, 1.0, and 10 mg/mL).

FIG. 17B is a photograph of a top view of exemplary LDH-gel monomer solutions with different LDH particle loadings (0.1 and 1.0 mg/mL) and different monomers (PEGDA having an average molecular weight of 575 g/mol (top) and AAm (bottom)).

FIG. 17C is a photograph of exemplary LDH-gels prepared using various monomer: crosslinker ratios and with an LDH loading of 10 mg/mL.

FIG. 17D is a photograph of an exemplary LDH-gel prepared with acrylamide (AAm) monomer and an LDH loading of 10 mg/mL.

FIG. 18A is a photograph of two different LDH-gels prepared from two different monomers (one from AAm monomer and the other from PEGDA monomer), each containing calcined Mg₄Al LDH particles (LDH loading=10 mg/mL).

FIG. 18B is a photograph of the LDH-gels of FIG. 18A after being broken into pieces.

FIG. 19A is a photograph of an exemplary LDH-gel prepared with AAm monomer and calcined Mg_3.8AlZn_0.2 LDH particles (LDH loading=10 mg/mL).

FIG. 19B is a photograph of an exemplary LDH-gel prepared with AAm monomer and calcined Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2 LDH particles (LDH loading=10 mg/mL).

FIG. 19C is a photograph of a vial containing exemplary Mg_3.8AlZn_0.2 LDH particles post-calcination and a vial containing Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2 LDH particles post-calcination.

FIG. 19D is a photograph of an exemplary LDH-gel that was prepared with PEGDA monomer and equal amounts of calcined Mg_3.8AlZn_0.2 and Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2 LDH particles.

FIG. 20 is a graph of compressive stress vs. compressive strain for exemplary polyacrylamide (PAAm) hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer (AAm) to crosslinker (monomer: crosslinker=200:1, 500:1, 750:1, and 1000:1).

FIG. 21A is a bar graph showing the ultimate compressive strength (UCS) values for exemplary polyacrylamide (PAAm) hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer (AAm) to crosslinker (monomer: crosslinker=200:1, 500:1, 750:1, and 1000:1). Values are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation.

FIG. 21B is a bar graph showing the compressive modulus (modulus) values for exemplary polyacrylamide (PAAm) hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer (AAm) to crosslinker (monomer: crosslinker=200:1, 500:1, 750:1, and 1000:1). Values are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation.

FIG. 22 is a graph of compressive stress vs. compressive strain for exemplary PEGDA hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer (PEGDA having an average molecular weight of 575 g/mol) to crosslinker (50:1, 100:1, 200:1, and 500:1).

FIG. 23A is a bar graph showing the ultimate compressive strength (UCS) values for exemplary PEGDA hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer (PEGDA having an average molecular weight of 575 g/mol) to crosslinker (monomer: crosslinker=50:1, 100:1, 200:1, and 500:1). Values are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation.

FIG. 23B is a bar graph showing the compressive modulus (modulus) values for exemplary PEGDA hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer (PEGDA having an average molecular weight of 575 g/mol) to crosslinker (monomer: crosslinker=50:1, 100:1, 200:1, and 500:1). Values are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation.

FIG. 24 is a side-by-side comparison of the compressive stress vs. compressive strain graphs for exemplary PAAm and PEGDA hydrogels. As evidenced by the comparison, PAAm hydrogels are softer and may swell more than PEGDA hydrogels.

FIG. 25 is a graph of compressive stress vs. compressive strain for exemplary LDH-hydrogels prepared using acrylamide (AAm) monomer (monomer: crosslinker=750:1) at various LDH particle loadings (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL).

FIG. 26A is a scatterplot graph showing the relationship between the ultimate compressive strength (UCS) of the exemplary LDH-hydrogel prepared using acrylamide (AAm) monomer (monomer: crosslinker=750:1), and the LDH particle loading (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Data points are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation. (Some error bars are smaller than data symbols.)

FIG. 26B is a scatterplot graph showing the relationship between the compressive modulus (modulus) of an exemplary LDH-hydrogel prepared using acrylamide (AAm) monomer (monomer: crosslinker=750:1), and the LDH particle loading (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Data points are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation. (Some error bars are smaller than data symbols.)

FIG. 27 is a graph of compressive stress vs. compressive strain for an exemplary LDH-hydrogel prepared using PEGDA monomer (PEGDA having an average MW of 575 g/mol, monomer: crosslinker=500:1) at various LDH particle loadings (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL).

FIG. 28A is a scatterplot graph showing the relationship between the ultimate compressive strength (UCS) of an exemplary LDH-hydrogel prepared using PEGDA monomer (PEGDA having an average MW of 575 g/mol, monomer: crosslinker=500:1), and the LDH particle loading (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Data points are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation. (Some error bars are smaller than data symbols.)

FIG. 28B is a scatterplot graph showing the relationship between the compressive modulus (modulus) of an exemplary LDH-hydrogel prepared using PEGDA monomer (PEGDA having an average MW of 575 g/mol, monomer: crosslinker=500:1), and the LDH particle loading (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Data points are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation. (Some error bars are smaller than data symbols.)

FIG. 29A is a bar graph showing the swelling ratios of exemplary PAAm hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer (AAm) to crosslinker (monomer: crosslinker=200:1, 500:1, 750:1, and 1000:1). Values are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation.

FIG. 29B is a bar graph showing the swelling ratios of exemplary PEGDA hydrogels prepared with various mole ratios of monomer to crosslinker (monomer: crosslinker=50:1, 100:1, 200:1, and 500:1). Values are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation.

FIG. 30A is a scatterplot graph illustrating the relationship between the swelling ratio of an exemplary LDH-hydrogel prepared using acrylamide (AAm) monomer (monomer: crosslinker=750:1), and the LDH particle loading (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Data points are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation. (Some error bars are smaller than data symbols.)

FIG. 30B is a scatterplot graph showing the relationship between the swelling ratio of an exemplary LDH-hydrogel prepared using PEGDA monomer (PEGDA having an average MW of 575 g/mol, monomer: crosslinker=500:1), and the LDH particle loading (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Data points are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation. (Some error bars are smaller than data symbols.)

FIG. 31A is a scatterplot graph showing the relationship between the compressive modulus (modulus) and the swelling ratio for exemplary LDH-hydrogels prepared using acrylamide (AAm) monomer with monomer: crosslinker=750:1. Each data point represents a different LDH particle loading (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Data points are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation.

FIG. 31B is a scatterplot graph showing the relationship between the compressive modulus (modulus) and the swelling ratio for exemplary LDH-hydrogels prepared using PEGDA monomer with monomer: crosslinker=500:1. Each data point represents a different LDH particle loading (0, 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL). Data points are the average of three measurements and the error bars represent the first standard deviation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Exemplary materials, methods and techniques disclosed and contemplated herein generally relate to layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and layered double hydroxide hydrogels (LDH-gels). Exemplary LDHs and LDH-gels may be particularly suited for use in water filtration applications, such as filters for onsite water treatment systems (OWTSs). Exemplary LDHs and LDH-gels may also be particularly suited for the treatment of stormwater.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. In case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control. Methods and materials are described below, although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in practice or testing of the present disclosure. All publications, patent applications, patents and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. The materials, methods, and examples disclosed herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

The terms “comprise(s),” “include(s),” “having,” “has,” “can,” “contain(s),” and variants thereof, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended transitional phrases, terms, or words that do not preclude the possibility of additional acts or structures. The singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The present disclosure also contemplates other embodiments “comprising,” “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of,” the embodiments or elements presented herein, whether explicitly set forth or not.

As used herein, the term “about” is used to indicate that exact values are not necessarily attainable. Therefore, the term “about” is used to indicate this uncertainty limit. The term “about” may refer to plus or minus 10% of the indicated number. For example, “about 10%” may indicate a range of 9% to 11%, and “about 1” may mean from 0.9-1.1. Other meanings of “about” may be apparent from the context, such as rounding off, so, for example “about 1” may also mean from 0.5-1.4. The modifier “about” should also be considered as disclosing the range defined by the absolute values of the two endpoints. For example, the expression “from about 2 to about 4” also discloses the range “from 2 to 4.”

For the recitation of numeric ranges herein, each intervening number there between with the same degree of precision is contemplated. For example, for the range of 6-9, the numbers 7 and 8 are contemplated in addition to 6 and 9, and for the range 6.0-7.0, the numbers 6.0, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, and 7.0 are contemplated. For another example, when a pressure range is described as being between ambient pressure and another pressure, a pressure that is ambient pressure is expressly contemplated.

As used herein, the term “hydrogel” is a crosslinked hydrophilic polymer that does not dissolve in water.

As used herein, the term “crosslinker” is a molecule that contains two or more reactive ends capable of chemically attaching to specific functional groups on other molecules.

As used herein, the term “initiator” is a molecule that reacts with a monomer (single molecule that can form chemical bonds) to form an intermediate compound capable of linking successively with a plurality of other monomers into a polymeric compound.

I. EXEMPLARY COMPOSITIONS

Various aspects of exemplary layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and layered double hydroxide hydrogels (LDH-gels) are discussed below.

A. Exemplary Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs)

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are a class of materials described by the general formula [M_1−x²⁺M_x³⁺(OH)₂]^x+[Aⁿ⁻]_x/n·yH₂O, where M atoms are divalent and trivalent transition metal cations arranged in 2-dimensional crystalline hydroxide sheets, and Aⁿ⁻ is an anion.

As shown in FIG. 1A, LDHs may be incorporated in layered double hydroxide hydrogel (LDH-gel) beads in a filter-cartridge configured for nutrient removal. The target nutrient in FIG. 1A is phosphorus (P), although exemplary LDH-gels may be configured for other nutrients as discussed in greater detail below.

The robust immobilization of LDH particles in the LDH-gel beads may enable optimum filter performance. LDH-gels may achieve such robust immobilization of LDH particles, and as shown in FIG. 1B, the hydrogel of the LDH-gel holds the LDH particles in place, maintaining the LDH-gel's functionality and water permeability. As shown in FIG. 1C, charge balance is achieved in LDH particles by the stacking of the crystalline layers with anions (and water molecules) occupying the inter-sheet space. As further indicated by FIG. 1C, LDH compositions may tune stability, selectivity, and capacity.

LDHs based on Al³⁺ and Mg²⁺ may have high selectivity for phosphorus-containing species, with sorption occurring primarily through ligand-exchange and ion-exchange mechanisms. Exemplary LDHs may be altered, and the material properties (including selectivity) tuned by modifying the ratio and identity of the divalent (X²⁺) and trivalent (X³⁺) metal cations. Exemplary phosphorus-containing species may include dissolved reactive phosphate (PO₄³⁻, HPO₄⁻², and H₂PO₄⁻), particulate inorganic phosphate (e.g., from soil particulates), and various organic phosphorus-containing compounds (e.g., from decomposition of organic matter and proteins; amino acids; some surfactants).

LDHs based on Fe³⁺/Fe²⁺, Al³⁺, and Mg²⁺ may have high selectivity for nitrogen-containing species, with sorption occurring primarily through ligand-exchange and ion-exchange mechanisms. Exemplary LDHs may be altered, and the material properties (including selectivity) tuned by modifying the ratio and identity of the divalent (X²⁺) and trivalent (X³⁺) metal cations. Exemplary nitrogen-containing species may include inorganic nitrogen-containing ions (nitrate (NO₃⁻), nitrite (NO₂⁻), and ammonium (NH₄⁺)), and various organic nitrogen-containing compounds (e.g., from decomposition of organic matter and proteins; amino acids; azo dyes).

The structural stability of LDHs can be compromised during PO₄³⁻ sorption if reaction with and abstraction of the metal cations (X²⁺ and/or X³⁺) from the crystalline sheets occurs. This results in precipitation of secondary phosphate-containing phases through formation of ionic bonds. When secondary phase precipitation is avoided, PO₄³⁻ desorption can be achieved via ion exchange by introducing a competing anion at high concentration (for example, —OH, by treatment with strong base).

Exemplary layered double hydroxides (LDHs) of the present disclosure generally comprise a compound of formula:

Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂,

wherein X is Mn⁺², Cu⁺², Zn⁺², or Fe⁺², and 0.01≤y≤1. In some instances, X is Zn⁺² or Fe⁺². A stoichiometric amount of X is defined by the subscript y.

Typically, y is between about 0.01 and about 1. In various instances, y is between about 0.1 and about 1; between about 0.2 and about 1; between about 0.25 and about 0.95; between about 0.30 and about 0.90; between about 0.35 and about 0.85; between about 0.40 and about 0.80; between about 0.45 and about 0.75; between about 0.50 and about 0.70; or between about 0.55 and about 0.65. In various instances, y is no greater than 1; no greater than 0.95; no greater than 0.90; no greater than 0.85; no greater than 0.80; no greater than 0.75; no greater than 0.70; no greater than 0.65; no greater than 0.60; no greater than 0.55; no greater than 0.50; no greater than 0.45; no greater than 0.40; no greater than 0.35; no greater than 0.30; no greater than 0.25; no greater than 0.20; no greater than 0.15; no greater than 0.10; no greater than 0.05; or no greater than 0.01. In various instances, y is no less than 0.01; no less than 0.05; no less than 0.10; no less than 0.15; no less than 0.20; no less than 0.25; no less than 0.30; no less than 0.35; no less than 0.40; no less than 0.45; no less than 0.50; no less than 0.55; no less than 0.60; no less than 0.65; no less than 0.70; no less than 0.75; no less than 0.80; no less than 0.85; no less than 0.90; no less than 0.95; or no less than 1.

B. Exemplary Layered Double Hydroxide Hydrogels (LDH-Gels)

Exemplary layered double hydroxide hydrogels (LDH-gels) may comprise a hydrogel and at least one layered double hydroxide (LDH). In various instances, the LDH-gel is in the form of a bead. Exemplary beads may be spherical. Exemplary spherical beads may be perfectly or imperfectly spherical. Exemplary LDH-gel beads may have a diameter between 1 mm and 10 mm. In various instances, LDH-gel beads have a diameter between 1 mm and 9 mm; between 2 mm and 8 mm; between 3 mm and 7 mm; or between 4 mm and 6 mm. In various instances, the LDH-gel heads have a diameter of no greater than 10 mm; no greater than 9 mm; no greater than 8 mm; no greater than 7 mm; no greater than 6 mm; no greater than 5 mm; no greater than 4 mm; no greater than 3 mm; no greater than 2 mm; or no greater than 1 mm. In various instances, the LDH-gel heads have a diameter of no less than 1 mm; no less than 2 mm; no less than 3 mm; no less than 4 mm; no less than 5 mm; no less than 6 mm; no less than 7 mm; no less than 9 mm; or no less than 10 mm.

In other instances, the LDH-gel is in the form of a block. In various instances, the LDH-gel blocks may be broken into pieces. In various instances, the pieces of LDH gel blocks may have a length along the longest axis between 1 mm and 10 mm. In various instances, the pieces of LDH gel blocks may have a length along the longest axis between 1 mm and 9 mm; between 2 mm and 8 mm; between 3 mm and 7 mm; or between 4 mm and 6 mm. In various instances, the pieces of LDH gel blocks may have a length along the longest axis of no greater than 10 mm; no greater than 9 mm; no greater than 8 mm; no greater than 7 mm; no greater than 6 mm; no greater than 5 mm; no greater than 4 mm; no greater than 3 mm; no greater than 2 mm; or no greater than 1 mm. In various instances, the pieces of LDH gel blocks may have a length along the longest axis of no less than 1 mm; no less than 2 mm; no less than 3 mm; no less than 4 mm; no less than 5 mm; no less than 6 mm; no less than 7 mm; no less than 9 mm; or no less than 10 mm.

The density of the LDH-gel may vary and will generally depend on the LDH particle loading. In various instances, the density of the LDH-gel may be 1.01 g/mL to 1.50 g/mL. In various instances, the density of the LDH-gel may be 1.05 g/mL to 1.50 g/mL; 1.10 g/mL to 1.50 g/mL; 1.15 g/mL to 1.45 g/mL; 1.20 g/mL to 1.40 g/mL; or 1.25 g/mL to 1.35 g/mL. In various instances, the density of the LDH-gel may be no greater than 1.50 g/mL; no greater than 1.45g/mL; no greater than 1.40 g/mL; no greater than 1.35 g/mL; no greater than 1.30 g/mL; no greater than 1.25 g/mL; no greater than 1.20 g/mL; no greater than 1.15 g/mL; no greater than 1.10 g/mL; no greater than 1.05 g/mL; or no greater than 1.01 g/mL. In various instances, the density of the LDH-gel may be no less than 1.01 g/mL; no less than 1.05 g/mL; no less than 1.10 g/mL; no less than 1.15 g/mL; no less than 1.20 g/mL; no less than 1.25 g/mL; no less than 1.30 g/mL; no less than 1.35 g/mL; no less than 1.40 g/mL; no less than 1.45 g/mL; or no less than 1.50 g/mL.

Exemplary hydrogels for use in the LDH-gels include poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA), polyacrylamide (PAAm), poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), and combinations thereof. In various instances, the hydrogel comprises polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), polyacrylamide (PAAm), or combinations thereof.

Exemplary LDHs included in the LDH-gels comprise a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂ wherein X is Mn⁺², Cu⁺², Zn⁺², or Fe⁺², and 0.01≤y≤1. In some instances, X is Zn⁺² or Fe⁺².

In various instances, the LDH-gel comprises more than one LDH comprising a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂. In various instances, the LDH-gel comprises a first LDH comprising a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂ where X is Zn⁺², and a second LDH comprising a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂ where X is Fe⁺².

The ratio of the first LDH to the second LDH present in the LDH-gel may be from 100:1to 1:100 In various instances, the ratio of the first LDH to the second LDH is from 90:1 to 1:90;80:1 to 1:80; 70:1 to 1:70; 60:1 to 1:60; 50:1 to 1:50; 40:1 to 1:40; 30:1 to 1:30; 20:1 to 1:20; 10:1to 1:10; 9:1 to 1:9; 8:1 to 1:8; 7:1 to 1:7; 6:1 to 1:6; 5:1 to 1:5; 4:1 to 1:4; 3:1 to 1:3; or 2:1 to 1:2. In various instances, the ratio of the first LDH to the second LDH is no greater than 100:1; no greater than 90:1; no greater than 80:1; no greater than 70:1; no greater than 60:1; no greater than 50:1; no greater than 40:1; no greater than 30:1; no greater than 20:1; no greater than 10:1; no greater than 9:1; no greater than 8:1; no greater than 7:1; no greater than 6:1; no greater than 5:1; no greater than 4:1; no greater than 3:1; no greater than 2:1; no greater than 1:1; no greater than 1:2; no greater than 1:3; no greater than 1:4; no greater than 1:5; no greater than 1:6; no greater than 1:7; no greater than 1:8; no greater than 1:9; no greater than 1:10; no greater than 1:20; no greater than 1:30; no greater than 1:40; no greater than 1:50; no greater than 1:60; no greater than 1:70; no greater than 1:80; no greater than 1:90; or no greater than 1:100. In various instances, the ratio of the first LDH to the second LDH is no less than 1:100; no less than 1:90; no less than 1:80; no less than 1:70; no less than 1:60; no less than 1:50; no less than 1:40; no less than 1:30; no less than 1:20; no less than 1:10; no less than 1:9; no less than 1:8; no less than 1:7; no less than 1:6; no less than 1:5; no less than 1:4; no less than 1:3; no less than 1:2; no less than 1:1; no less than 2:1; no less than 3:1; no less than 4:1; no less than 5:1; no less than 6:1; no less than 7:1; no less than 8:1; no less than 9:1; no less than 10:1; no less than 20:1; no less than 30:1; no less than 40:1; no less than 50:1; no less than 60:1; no less than 70:1; no less than 80:1; no less than 90:1; or no less than 100:1.

Exemplary hydrogel monomers (2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA), acrylamide (AAm), and poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) (PEGDA having average molecular weight of 575 g/mol) may be used with LDH particles to form LDH-gels via radical polymerization/crosslinking. These hydrogel monomers are shown below:

As shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, hydrogels may have high or low crosslinking density. Typically, high crosslinking densities are observed when low mole ratios of monomer to crosslinker (i.e., monomer: crosslinker), e.g., 50:1, are used to prepare the hydrogel. Conversely, low crosslinking densities are observed when high mole ratios of monomer to crosslinker (i.e., monomer: crosslinker), e.g., 1000:1, are used to prepare the hydrogel. The crosslinking density dictates the mechanical and swelling properties, including, but not limited to, ultimate compressive strength (“UCS”), compressive modulus (“modulus”), and swelling ratio.

II. EXEMPLARY METHODS

Exemplary methods can be used to prepare LDH particles and LDH-gels. Various aspects of methods of preparing LDH particles and LDH-gels are described below.

A. Exemplary Methods of Preparing LDH Particles

Exemplary methods of preparing LDH particles may comprise preparing a metal ion solution comprising magnesium chloride (MgCl₂), aluminum chloride (AlCl₃), and a transition metal chloride (XCl₂). In various instances, the transition metal chloride, XCl₂, is MnCl₂, CuCl₂, ZnCl₂, or FeCl₂. In various instances, the total concentration of metal ions (i.e., Mg⁺², Al⁺³, and X⁺² ions) in the solution is 1 molar (1 M). The metal ion solution may be prepared using hydrate salts of MgCl₂, AlCl₃, and XCl₂ (i.e., MgCl₂·6H₂O, AlCl₃·6H₂O, and XCl₂·4H₂O).

Exemplary methods may further comprise adding a 2 molar (2 M) sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to the metal ion solution to form a first suspension comprising the LDH particles. Exemplary methods may further comprise adding the 2 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution while stirring the metal ion solution. Alternatively, immediately after adding the 2 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to the metal ion solution, the first suspension may be stirred.

Exemplary methods may further comprise centrifuging the first suspension. Exemplary methods may further comprise decanting a first supernatant. Alternatively, after exposing the LDH particles to a 2 molar (2 M) sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to form the first suspension comprising the LDH particles, exemplary methods may comprise filtering the LDH particles.

Exemplary methods may further comprise exposing the LDH particles to a 2 M sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution to form a second suspension comprising the LDH particles. Exposing the LDH particles to a sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution exchanges carbonate anions (CO₃⁻) into the LDH particle's interlayer region. Depending on the desired use, LDHs with various interlayer anions may be prepared using a 2 M sodium (Na⁺) or potassium (K⁺) salt solution with an appropriate anion (e.g., nitrate (NO₃⁻), phosphate (PO₄³⁻), chloride (Cl⁻), fluoride (F⁻), hydroxide (OH⁻), or bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻)). Exemplary methods may further comprise centrifuging the second suspension. Exemplary methods may further comprise decanting a second supernatant. Alternatively, after exposing the LDH particles to a 2 M sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution to form a second suspension comprising the LDH particles, exemplary methods may comprise filtering the LDH particles.

Exemplary methods may further comprise washing the LDH particles. Exemplary washing operations may comprise a series of three different washing operations: a first washing operation, a second washing operation, and a third washing operation. Exemplary first washing operations may comprise washing the LDH particles with a dilute sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution. In some instances, the dilute sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution used during the first washing operation has a concentration of sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) between 0.01 M and 0.2 M. In various instances, the solution used during the first washing operation has a concentration of sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) between 0.05 M and 0.2 M; between 0.06 M and 0.19 M; between 0.07 M and 0.18 M; between 0.08 M and 0.17 M; between 0.09 M and 0.16 M; or between 0.10 M and 0.15 M. In various instances, the dilute sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution used during the first washing operation has a concentration of sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) of no less than 0.01 M; no less than 0.02 M; no less than 0.04 M no less than 0.05 M; no less than 0.06 M; no less than 0.07 M; no less than 0.08 M; no less than 0.09 M; no less than 0.1 M; no less than 0.11 M; no less than 0.12 M; no less than 0.13 M; no less than 0.14 M; no less than 0.15 M; no less than 0.16 M; no less than 0.17 M; no less than 0.18 M; no less than 0.19 M; or no less than 0.2 M. In various instances, the dilute sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution used during the first washing operation has a ratio of sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) of no greater than 0.2 M; no greater than 0.19 M; no greater than 0.18 M; no greater than 0.17 M; no greater than 0.16 M; no greater than 0.15 M; no greater than 0.14 M; no greater than 0.13 M; no greater than 0.12 M; no greater than 0.13 M; no greater than 0.12 M; no greater than 0.11 M; no greater than 0.1 M; no greater than 0.09 M; no greater than 0.08 M; no greater than 0.07 M; no greater than 0.06 M; no greater than 0.05 M; no greater than 0.04 M; no greater than 0.03 M; no greater than 0.02 M; or no greater than 0.01 M.

Exemplary first operations may comprise agitating the LDH particles during washing. Exemplary agitating operations may be achieved by mechanical means (e.g., shaking) or by sonication. In various instances, agitating the particles during washing may occur for a time period of 5 minutes to 15 minutes. In various instances, agitating the particles during washing may occur for a time period of 6 minutes to 14 minutes; 7 minutes to 13 minutes; 8 minutes to 12 minutes; or 9 minutes to 11 minutes. In various instances, agitating the particles during washing may occur for no greater than 15 minutes; no greater than 14 minutes; no greater than 13 minutes; no greater than 12 minutes; no greater than 11 minutes; no greater than 10 minutes; no greater than 9 minutes; no greater than 8 minutes; no greater than 7 minutes; no greater than 6 minutes; or no greater than 5minutes. In various instances, agitating the particles during washing may occur for no less than 5minutes; no less than 6 minutes; no less than 7 minutes; no less than 8 minutes; no less than 9minutes; no less than 10 minutes; no less than 11 minutes; no less than 12 minutes; no less than 13minutes; no less than 14 minutes; or no less than 15 minutes.

Exemplary second and third washing steps may each comprise washing the LDH particles with pure water. As used herein, “pure water” means an aqueous liquid comprising no more than 0.001 M sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃). Exemplary second and third washing operations may each comprise agitating the LDH particles during washing. Exemplary agitating operations may be achieved by mechanical means (e.g., shaking) or by sonication. In various instances, agitating the particles during washing may occur for a time period of 5 minutes to 15 minutes. In various instances, agitating the particles during washing may occur for a time period of 6 minutes to 14 minutes; 7 minutes to 13 minutes; 8 minutes to 12 minutes; or 9 minutes to 11 minutes. In various instances, agitating the particles during washing may occur for no greater than 15 minutes; no greater than 14 minutes; no greater than 13 minutes; no greater than 12 minutes; no greater than 11 minutes; no greater than 10 minutes; no greater than 9 minutes; no greater than 8 minutes; no greater than 7 minutes; no greater than 6 minutes; or no greater than 5 minutes. In various instances, agitating the particles during washing may occur for no less than 5 minutes; no less than 6 minutes; no less than 7 minutes; no less than 8 minutes; no less than 9 minutes; no less than 10 minutes; no less than 11 minutes; no less than 12 minutes; no less than 13 minutes; no less than 14 minutes; or no less than 15 minutes.

Exemplary methods may further comprise drying the LDH particles. Exemplary drying methods may comprise drying the LDH particles in a glass container. Exemplary drying methods may comprise drying the LDH particles in the presence of static air or, alternatively, light to moderate passive air flow. In some instances, drying the LDH particles may occur in a drying oven with a passive air vent at the top or at room temperature in a fume hood. In various instances, drying the LDH particles may occur at a temperature ranging from 20° C. to 105° C. In various instances, drying the LDH particles may occur at a temperature ranging from 25° C. to 105° C.; ranging from 30° C. to 100° C.; ranging from 35° C. to 95° C.; ranging from 40° C. to 80° C.; ranging from 45° C. to 75° C.; ranging from 50° C. to 70° C.; ranging from 55° C. to 65° C.; or ranging from ° C. to 60° C. In various instances, drying the LDH particles may occur at a temperature of no greater than 105° C.; no greater than 100° C.; no greater than 95° C.; no greater than 90° C.; no greater than 85° C.; no greater than 80° C.; no greater than 75° C.; no greater than 70° C.; no greater than 65° C.; no greater than 60° C.; no greater than 55° C.; no greater than 50° C.; no greater than 45° C.; no greater than 40° C.; no greater than 35° C.; no greater than 30° C.; no greater than 25° C.; or no greater than 20° C.

In various instances, drying the LDH particles occurs for 12 hours to 48 hours. In various instances, drying the LDH particles occurs for 14 hours to 46 hours; 16 hours to 44 hours; 18 hours to 42 hours; 20 hours to 40 hours; 22 hours to 48 hours; 24 hours to 46 hours; 26 hours to 44 hours; 28 hours to 42 hours; 30 hours to 40 hours; 32 hours to 38 hours; or 34 hours to 36 hours. In various instances, drying the LDH particles occurs for no greater than 48 hours; no greater than 46 hours; no greater than 44 hours; no greater than 42 hours; no greater than 40 hours; no greater than 38hours; no greater than 36 hours; no greater than 34 hours; no greater than 32 hours; no greater than 30 hours; no greater than 28 hours; no greater than 26 hours; no greater than 24 hours; no greater than 22 hours; no greater than 20 hours; no greater than 18 hours; no greater than 16 hours; no greater than 14 hours; or no greater than 12 hours. In various instances, drying the LDH particles occurs for no less than 12 hours; no less than 14 hours; no less than 16 hours; no less than 18 hours; no less than 20 hours; no less than 22 hours; no less than 24 hours; no less than 26 hours; no less than 28 hours; no less than 30 hours; no less than 32 hours; no less than 34 hours; no less than 36hours; no less than 38 hours; no less than 40 hours; no less than 42 hours; no less than 44 hours; no less than 46 hours; or no less than 48 hours.

Exemplary methods may further comprise calcining the LDH particles. In various instances, calcining the LDH particles occurs in a borosilicate glass container. Typically, calcining the LDH particles occurs at a temperature of 350° C. to 550° C. In various instances, calcining the LDH particles occurs at a temperature of 360° C. to 540° C.; 370° C. to 530° C.; 380° C. to 520° C.; 390° C. to 510° C.; 400° C. to 500° C.; 410° C. to 490° C.; 420° C. to 480° C.; 430° C. to 470° C.; or 440° C. to 460° C. In various instances, calcining the LDH particles occurs at a temperature of no greater than 550° C.; no greater than 540° C.; no greater than 530° C.; no greater than 520° C.; no greater than 510° C.; no greater than 500° C.; no greater than 490° C.; no greater than 480° C.; no greater than 470° C.; no greater than 460° C.; no greater than 450° C.; no greater than 440° C.; no greater than 430° C.; no greater than 420° C.; no greater than 410° C.; no greater than 400° C.; no greater than 390° C.; no greater than 380° C.; no greater than 370° C.; no greater than 360° C.; or no greater than 350° C. In various instances, calcining the LDH particles occurs at a temperature of no less than 350° C.; no less than 360° C.; no less than 370° C.; no less than 380° C.; no less than 390° C.; no less than 400° C.; no less than 410° C.; no less than 420° C.; no less than 430° C.; no less than 440° C.; no less than 450° C.; no less than 460° C.; no less than 470° C.; no less than 480° C.; no less than 490° C.; no less than 500° C.; no less than 510° C.; no less than 520° C.; no less than 530° C.; no less than 540° C.; or no less than 550° C.

In various instances, calcining may occur for 6 hours to 24 hours. In various instances, calcining occurs for 7 hours to 23 hours; 8 hours to 22 hours; 9 hours to 21 hours; 10 hours to 20 hours; 11 hours to 19 hours; 12 hours to 18 hours; 13 hours to 17 hours; or 14 hours to 16 hours. In various instances, calcining occurs for no greater than 24 hours; no greater than 22 hours; no greater than 20 hours; no greater than 18 hours; no greater than 16 hours; no greater than 14 hours; no greater than 12 hours; no greater than 10 hours; no greater than 8 hours; or no greater than 6 hours. In various instances, In various instances, no greater than 24 hours; no greater than 22 hours; no greater than 20 hours; no greater than 18 hours; no greater than 16 hours; no greater than 14 hours; no greater than 12 hours; no greater than 10 hours; no greater than 8 hours; or no greater than 6 hours. In various instances, calcining may occur for no less 6 hours; no less than 8 hours; no less than 10 hours; no less than 8 hours; or no less than 6 hours.

B. Exemplary Methods of Making LDH-Gels

Exemplary methods of making LDH-gels of the present disclosure may comprise forming a mixture comprising a monomer, a crosslinker, a catalyst, and LDH particles. In various instances, methods of making LDH-gels may comprise forming the mixture in water. Exemplary methods may further comprise adding the water to an oil to form a water-in-oil emulsion. The oil may comprise paraffin oil. In some instances, acrylamide (AAm) is the monomer. In other instances, polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) having an average molecular weight of 575 g/mol is the monomer. In various instances N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) is the crosslinker. In various instances, N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TEMED) is the catalyst.

In exemplary mixtures, the mole ratio of the monomer to the crosslinker may be 50:1 to 1000:1. In various instances, the mole ratio of the monomer to the crosslinker (i.e., monomer: crosslinker) may be 100:1 to 1000:1; 150:1 to 950:1; 200:1 to 900:1; 250:1 to 850:1; 300:1 to 800:1; 350:1 to 750:1; 400:1 to 700:1; 450:1 to 650:1; or 500:1 to 600:1. In various instances, the mole ratio of monomer to crosslinker may be no greater than 1000:1; no greater than 950:1; no greater than 900:1; no greater than 850:1; no greater than 800:1; no greater than 750:1; no greater than 700:1; no greater than 600:1; no greater than 550:1; no greater than 500:1; no greater than 450:1; no greater than 400:1; no greater than 350:1; no greater than 300:1; no greater than 250:1; no greater than 200:1; no greater than 150:1; no greater than 100:1; or no greater than 50:1. In various instances, the mole ratio of monomer to crosslinker may be no less than 50:1; no less than 100:1; no less than 150:1; no less than 200:1; no less than 250:1; no less than 300:1; no less than 350:1; no less than 400:1; no less than 450:1; no less than 500:1; no less than 550:1; no less than 600:1; no less than 650:1; no less than 700:1; no less than 750:1; no less than 800:1; no less than 850:1; no less than 950:1; or no less than 1000:1.

Exemplary methods may further comprise adding an initiator to the mixture comprising the monomer, the crosslinker, the catalyst, and the LDH particles, while stirring the mixture. In various instances ammonium persulfate (APS) is the initiator. Exemplary methods may further comprise allowing the mixture to form a solid. Exemplary methods may further comprise washing the solid. Exemplary washing operations may comprise letting the solids sit in pure water for 7 to 21 days. In various instances, washing operations may comprise letting the solids sit in pure water for 8 to 20 days; 9 to 19 days; 10 to 18 days; 11 to 17 days; 12 to 16 days; or 13 to 15 days. In various instances, washing operations may comprise letting the solids sit in pure water for no greater than 21 days; no greater than 20 days; no greater than 19 days; no greater than 18 days; no greater than 17 days; no greater than 16 days; no greater than 15 days; no greater than 14 days; no greater than 13 days; no greater than 12 days; no greater than 11 days; no greater than 10 days; no greater than 9 days; no greater than 8 days; or no greater than 7 days. In various instances, washing operations may comprise letting the solids sit in pure water for no less than 7 days; no less than 8days; no less than 9 days; no less than 10 days; no less than 11 days; no less than 12 days; no less than 13 days; no less than 14 days; no less than 15 days; no less than 16 days; no less than 17 days; no less than 18 days; no less than 19 days; no less than 20 days; or no less than 21 days. In various instances, washing may further comprise replacing the pure water with fresh pure water at the end of each day (i.e., every 24 hours) for 7 to 21 days.

C. Exemplary Methods of Making Filters comprising LDH-Gels

Exemplary filters comprising LDH-gels of the present disclosure may be manufactured using methods known to those of skill in the art. Exemplary filters may be constructed in various ways depending on the specific filter and intended use for said filter.

III. EXEMPLARY APPLICATIONS

Exemplary LDHs and/or LDH-gels may be incorporated into a filtration unit, such as a single-use filter. Exemplary LDHs and/or LDH-gels may be contained in standard rigid housing, for example polyvinyl chloride (PVC), in a variety of forms, including cylindrical columns. In some instances, LDHs and/or LDH-gels may be contained inside of standard flexible housings, for example nylon or burlap sacks/socks. In some instances, LDHs and/or LDH-gels may be included in filters with media bed configurations, as either a discrete layer or mixed with other media/fillers, for example, in a bioretention filter, as a soil amendment in bioretention systems, mixed with sand, gravel, compost, dirt, and/or other soils, including bioretention soils. Relative amounts of the different types of LDHs disclosed herein may be selected to achieve target nutrient removal.

IV. EXPERIMENTAL EXAMPLES

Without limiting the scope of the instant disclosure, various experimental examples of embodiments discussed above were prepared and results are discussed below.

Example 1: Preparation of Exemplary LDH Particles

1 molar (1 M) metal ion solutions A, B, and C were prepared by mixing 1 M solutions of the appropriate metal salt hydrates in the desired ratio. As shown below, each 1 M metal ion solution has a total volume of ˜20 mL.

• • A. Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2.
    • 15.2 mL of 1 M MgCl₂·6H₂O.
    • 4.0 mL of 1 M AlCl₃·6H₂O.
    • 0.8 mL of 1 M FeCl₂·4H₂O
  • B. Mg_3.6AlFe_0.4.
    • 14.4 mL of 1 M MgCl₂·6H₂O.
    • 4.0 mL of 1 M AlCl₃·6H₂O.
    • 1.6 mL of 1 M FeCl₂·4H₂O
  • C. Mg₃AlFe.
    • 12.0 mL of 1 M MgCl₂·6H₂O.
    • 4.0 mL of 1 M AlCl₃·6H₂O.
    • 4.0 mL of 1 M FeCl₂·4H₂O

To each of metal ion solutions A, B, and C, an equal volume (˜20 mL) of a 2 M NaOH solution was added with stirring to form LDH particles A, B, and C, respectively.

• • A. Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2(OH)₂ (i.e., “Fe-5” or “Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2 LDH”)
  • B. Mg_3.6AlFe_0.4(OH)₂ (i.e., “Fe-10” or “Mg_3.6AlFe_0.4 LDH”)
  • C. Mg₃AlFe(OH)₂ (i.e., “Fe-25” or “Mg₃AlFe LDH”)

The LDH particles were then removed from the suspension by centrifuging and decanting the supernatant. Next, the LDH particles were exposed to a 2 M sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution. The LDH particles were sonicated in the 2 M Na₂CO₃ solution for about 10 minutes. The LDH particles were then removed from the suspension by centrifuging and decanting the supernatant.

The LDH particles were then washed with a 0.1 M sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution. For the 0.1 M Na2CO3 wash, the LDH particles were sonicated in the 0.1 M Na₂CO₃ solution for about 10 minutes. The LDH particles were then removed from the suspension by centrifuging and decanting the supernatant. The LDH particles were then washed two times with pure water. For each pure water wash, the LDH particles were sonicated in the pure water for about 10 minutes. The LDH particles were then removed from the suspension by centrifuging and decanting the supernatant. After washing, the LDH particles were collected in a glass dish and dried overnight (˜12 hours) at 105° C. After drying, the LDH particles were calcined in a borosilicate glass container at 500° C. for about 6 hours.

The foregoing process was repeated, replacing Fe⁺² with Zn⁺², Cu⁺², and Mn⁺² to produce LDH particles D-L, shown below.

• • D. Mg_3.8AlZn_0.2(OH)₂ (“Zn-5” or “Mg_3.8AlZn0.2 LDH”)
  • E. Mg_3.6AlZn_0.4(OH)₂ (“Zn-10” or “Mg_3.6AlZn0.4 LDH”)
  • F. Mg₃AlZn(OH)₂ (“Zn-25” or “Mg₃AlZn LDH”)
  • G. Mg_3.8AlCu_0.2(OH)₂ (“Cu-5” or “Mg_3.8AlCu_0.2 LDH”)
  • H. Mg_3.6AlCu_0.4(OH)₂ (“Cu-10” or “Mg_3.6AlCu_0.4 LDH”)
  • I. Mg₃AlCu(OH)₂ (“Cu-25” or “Mg₃AlCu LDH
  • J. Mg_3.8AlMn_0.2(OH)₂ (“Mn-5” or “Mg_3.8AlMn_0.2 LDH”)
  • K. Mg_3.6AlMn_0.4(OH)₂ (“Mn-10” or “Mg_3.6AlMn_0.4 LDH”)
  • L. Mg₃AlMn(OH)₂ (“Mn-25” or “Mg3AlMn LDH”)

Example 2: X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRD) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) of Exemplary LDH Particles

The LDHs of Example 1, and the parent LDH (Mg₄Al LDH), were investigated using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Both calcined and non-calcined LDHs were investigated.

As shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, the interlayer spacing of the LDH structure, as observed via X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), can shift when the ratio of the hydroxide (OH⁻): carbonate (CO₃⁻) anions in the co-precipitation solution is modified. The shift in the positions of the 003 and 006 peaks indicate the change in interlayer spacing.

As shown in the X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) of FIGS. 4A-4B, upon calcining Mg₄Al LDH, hydroxide (LDH) is converted to oxide.

FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate, via X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) of Mg₄Al LDH, that precipitation of the LDH exclusively in the presence of carbonate ions (CO₃⁻) displaces more chloride ions than precipitation of the LDH exclusively in the presence of hydroxide ions (OH⁻).

FIG. 7 shows the XRD patterns of Mg₃AlX LDHs where X=Zn⁺², Cu⁺², Mn⁺², and Fe⁺², after drying (drying temperature=105° C.). The shift in the 006 peak (arrow) indicates that the substituted metal, X⁺², is integrated into the LDH structure. The overlayed XRD patterns for the Mg₃AlX LDHs illustrate that the interlayer spacing shifts when the substituted metal, X⁺², is changed. The Fe-5 (Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2) LDH and the Mn-25 (Mg₃AlMn) LDH have the smallest interlayer spacings.

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate the absence of a memory effect for Mg₃AlCu LDHs. For LDH samples which show the memory effect, the calcined structure converts back to the as-synthesized LDH layered structure. This memory effect conversion appears as a simultaneous increase in the size of the peak near 11°2θ and a decrease in the size of the peak near 44°2θ. As shown in FIG. 10A, for the calcined Mg₃AlCu LDH sample, the size of the 44°2θ peak decreases, but the peak near 11°2θ does not change in size, indicating a lack of memory effect. As shown in FIG. 10B, for the calcined Mg₄Al sample, the size of the 44°2θ peak decreases and the peak near 11°2θ increases, indicating a memory effect. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 11, the absence of any new or increasing peaks near 11°2θ in the 6-weeks aged Mg₃AlCu sample indicates that only a small amount of the calcined Mg₃AlCu LDH material has converted to an amorphous phase.

As shown in FIG. 13A, for the XRD patterns of calcined Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where X=Cu⁺² and y is 0.2 (Cu-5), 0.4 (Cu-10), and 1 (Cu-25), secondary oxides are present in the XRD pattern of Cu-25, but not in Cu-5 or Cu-10. As shown in FIG. 13B, for the XRD patterns of calcined Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where X=Zn⁺² and y is 0.2 (Zn-5), 0.4 (Zn-10), and 1 (Zn-25), secondary oxides are present in Zn-5, Zn-10, and Zn-25, however, as y (the amount of Zn⁺²) decreases, the amount of secondary oxide also decreases.

Example 3: Testing Exemplary LDH Particles

The LDHs of Example 1, and the parent LDH (Mg₄Al LDH), were assessed regarding total nitrogen (total N or TN), total phosphorous (total P or TP), and nitrate (NO₃⁻) removal in stormwater. Both calcined and non-calcined LDHs were investigated. The results are summarized in Tables 1-16 below. In general, all LDHs showed capability for P removal from real, spiked, and synthetic stormwater.

LDHs and calcined LDHs with the formula Mg_4−yAlX_y where X=Fe²⁺ showed strong performance for P removal on short time scales (≤10 min). Generally, calcined LDHs showed strong performance for nitrate (NO₃⁻) removal. For instance, calcined LDHs with the formula Mg_4−yAlX_y where X=Zn²⁺ or Cu²⁺ and where y≤0.4 showed strong performance for NO₃⁻ removal on short time scales (≤10 min).

Tables 1 and 2 show performance data for testing with real stormwater having a lower initial concentration of total N (2.5 ppm). As used herein, “real stormwater” is stormwater collected from the environment (N and P concentrations not altered). In these experiments, the Mg₄Fe LDH showed strong performance for total P removal.

TABLE 1
Total N removal from 150 mL of real stormwater by calcined LDHs.
			total
calcined		interlayer	N (ppm)	total N % removal
LDH	mass (g)	anion	5 min	72 h	5 min	72 h
Mg4Al	0.1506	OH−	1.3	1.0	48%	60%
Mg4Al	0.1499	CO32−	1.8	1.4	28%	44%
Mg4Fe	0.1509	CO32−	1.4	0.9	44%	64%
initial concentration	2.5	—

TABLE 2
Total P removal from 150 mL of real stormwater by calcined LDHs.
calcined	mass	interlayer	total P (ppm)	total P % removal
LDH	(g)	anion	5 min	1 h	72 h	5 min	1 h	72 h
Mg4Al	0.1506	OH−	0.98	0.78	0.05	10%	28%	96%
Mg4Al	0.1499	CO32−	1.04	0.64	0.03	5%	41%	97%
Mg4Fe	0.1509	CO32−	0.86	0.68	0.03	21%	37%	97%
initial concentration	1.09	—

Tables 3 and 4 show performance data for testing with real stormwater having a more typical initial concentration of total N (6.9 ppm). In these experiments, again, the Mg₄Fe LDH showed strong performance for total P removal.

TABLE 3
Total N removal from 150 mL of real stormwater by calcined LDHs.
			total
calcined		interlayer	N (ppm)	total N % removal
LDH	mass (g)	anion	5 min	72 h	5 min	72 h
Mg4Al	0.1508	OH−	6.9	3.7	0%	46%
Mg4Al	0.1516	CO32−	6.4	3.7	7%	46%
Mg4Fe	0.1504	CO32−	6.0	3.0	13%	57%
initial concentration	6.9	—

TABLE 4
Total P removal from 150 mL of real stormwater by calcined LDHs.
calcined		interlayer	total P (ppm)	total P % removal
LDH	mass (g)	anion	5 min	1 h	72 h	5 min	1 h	72 h
Mg4Al	0.1508	OH−	1.18	0.93	0.17	7%	27%	86%
Mg4Al	0.1516	CO32−	0.99	0.95	0.09	22%	25%	93%
Mg4Fe	0.1504	CO32−	1.05	1.00	0.06	17%	21%	96%
initial concentration	1.28	—

Table 5 shows total P removal performance data for substituted Mg₃AlX LDHs. The calcined Mg₃AlFe LDH showed strong performance for total P removal at all time scales.

TABLE 5
Total P removal from 150 mL of real stormwater by substituted Mg3AlX LDHs.
			calcined	total P (ppm)	total P % removal
calcined	mass	drying	at	5	10		5	10
LDH	(g)	T (° C.)	500° C.	min	min	72 h	min	min	72 h
Mg4Al	0.1517	105	yes	0.95	0.83	0.16	7%	19%	84%
Mg3AlMn	0.1496	105	yes	0.87	0.83	0.12	15%	19%	88%
Mg3AlZn	0.1503	105	yes	0.94	0.98	0.34	8%	4%	67%
Mg3AlFe	0.1501	105	yes	0.60	0.45	0.02	41%	56%	98%
Mg3AlCu	0.1510	105	yes	1.00	1.10	0.66	1%	−8%	36%
Mg3AlCu	0.1496	105	no	0.96	0.98	0.50	6%	3%	51%
Mg3AlCu	0.1500	20	no	0.90	0.76	0.02	11%	25%	98%
initial concentration	1.02	—

Table 6 shows total P removal performance data for calcined, substituted Mg₃AlX LDHs. In this experiment, the real stormwater was spiked with Na₂HPO₄ to increase the total P concentration to ˜1 ppm. Again, the calcined Mg AlFe LDH showed strong performance for total P removal at all time scales.

TABLE 6
Total P removal from 150 mL of spiked stormwater by calcined,
substituted Mg3AlX LDHs.
X metal	mass	total P (ppm)	total P % removal
substitution	(g)	5 min	10 min	24 h	5 min	10 min	24 h
Mn	0.1510	1.04	0.98	0.56	15%	20%	54%
Zn	0.1497	1.11	1.14	0.90	10%	8%	27%
Fe	0.1501	0.63	0.47	0.08	49%	62%	93%
Cu	0.1511	1.16	1.14	1.01	6%	8%	18%
initial concentration	1.23	—

Table 7 shows total P and nitrate removal performance data for calcined, substituted Mg₃AlX LDHs, for a single, short contact time (10 min). In this experiment, synthetic stormwater was used, which contained ˜1 ppm P (from Na₂HPO₄), ˜0.5 ppm NO₃⁻ (from NaNO₃), ˜4 ppm glycine, and ˜120 ppm CaCl₂ dissolved in deionized water. Before testing, the synthetic stormwater was adjusted to pH ˜7 using 1 M NaOH. Again, the calcined Mg₃AlFe LDH showed strong performance for total P removal.

TABLE 7
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of synthetic
stormwater by calcined LDHs, 10 min contact time.
	nutrient
	concentration	nutrient %
	(ppm)	removal
LDH	mass (g)	total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
Mg4Al	0.1001	0.49	0.24	53%	51%
Mg3AlZn	0.1000	0.85	0.30	19%	39%
Mg3AlFe	0.1000	0.07	0.40	93%	18%
Mg3AlCu	0.0997	0.95	0.49	9%	0%
initial concentration	1.04	0.49	—

Table 8 shows total P and nitrate removal performance data for calcined, substituted Mg₃AlX LDHs, essentially repeating the experiment from Table 7 with the addition of one additional longer contact time point (48 h). Again, the calcined Mg₃AlFe LDH performed well for total P removal at short time scales. All of the calcined LDHs showed >90% total P removal after 48 h.

TABLE 8
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of synthetic stormwater
by calcined LDHs.
		nutrient concentration
		(ppm)	nutrient % removal
		total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
		10		10		10		10
LDH	mass (g)	min	48 h	min	48 h	min	48 h	min	48 h
Mg4Al	0.0998	0.41	0.03	0.32	0.38	60%	97%	36%	24%
Mg3AlZn	0.1011	0.85	0.08	0.34	0.23	17%	92%	32%	54%
Mg3AlFe	0.0996	0.07	0.02	0.53	0.42	94%	98%	−6%	16%
Mg3AlCu	0.1012	0.96	0.08	0.31	0.35	7%	93%	38%	30%
initial concentration	1.03	0.50	—

Table 9 shows total P and nitrate removal performance data for calcined, substituted Mg₃AlX LDHs when using a “high-strength” model solution. The synthetic stormwater of the high-strength model solution contains ˜1.6 ppm P (from Na₂HPO₄) and ˜5 ppm NO₃ (from NaNO₃) dissolved in deionized water. Again, the calcined Mg₃AlFe LDH showed strong performance for total P removal on short time scales.

TABLE 9
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of high-strength model
nutrient solution by calcined LDHs.
		nutrient concentration
		(ppm)	nutrient % removal
		total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
LDH	mass (g)	10 min	48 h	10 min	48 h	10 min	48 h	10 min	48 h
Mg4Al	0.1014	1.07	0.06	7.0	7.2	39%	97%	−3%	−6%
Mg3AlZn	0.1004	1.55	0.73	6.8	7.0	12%	58%	0%	−3%
Mg3AlFe	0.1007	0.27	0.02	7.0	5.8	85%	99%	−3%	15%
Mg3AlCu	0.1013	1.60	0.38	7.8	7.8	8%	78%	−15%	−15%
initial concentration	1.75	6.8	—

Table 10 shows total P, total N, and nitrate removal performance data for calcined, substituted Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where y=0.2, 0.4, and 1.0, in contact with synthetic stormwater for 10 minutes. The total P removal performance was similar for all of the tested materials on this short time scale. The formulations where X=Zn²⁺ and y=0.2 and 0.4 showed strong performance for total N and nitrate removal. The initial NO₃⁻ concentration only represents ˜10% of the total N content, thus indicating that the formulation where X=Zn²⁺ or Fe²⁺ also removed organic N component (glycine) in the synthetic stormwater.

TABLE 10
Total P, total N, and nitrate removal from 100 mL of synthetic
stormwater by calcined LDHs, 10 min contact time.
		nutrient concentration
	mass	(ppm)	nutrient % removal
LDH	(g)	total P	total N	NO3−	total P	total N	NO3−
Mg4Al	0.1018	0.27	5.4	0.24	74%	4%	53%
Mg3.8AlZn0.2	0.1014	0.33	3.9	0.11	68%	30%	78%
Mg3.6AlZn0.4	0.1002	0.26	3.4	0.20	75%	39%	60%
Mg3AlZn	0.1003	0.34	7.0	0.23	67%	−25%	54%
Mg3.8AlFe0.2	0.1012	0.25	4.5	0.43	76%	20%	14%
Mg3.6AlFe0.4	0.1006	0.34	3.8	0.28	67%	32%	44%
Mg3AlFe	0.1008	0.31	5.0	0.48	70%	11%	4%
Mg3.8AlCu0.2	0.1000	0.33	8.2	0.27	68%	−46%	47%
Mg3.6AlCu0.4	0.1003	0.31	4.9	0.22	70%	13%	56%
Mg3AlCu	0.1001	0.38	4.1	0.26	63%	27%	48%
initial concentration	1.03	5.6	0.50	—

Table 11 shows total P, total N, and nitrate removal performance data for calcined, substituted Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where y=0.2, 0.4, and 1.0, in contact with synthetic stormwater for 94 hours. The total P removal performance was >90% for all formulations on this time scale. The formulations where X=Zn²⁺ or Cu²⁺ and y=0.2 show strong performance for nitrate removal. Some of the formulations (e.g., Mg_3.6AlZn_0.4 and Mg_3.6AlCu_0.4) showed lower % removal for NO₃⁻ at 94 h than at 10 min.

TABLE 11
Total P, total N, and nitrate removal from 100 mL of synthetic
stormwater by calcined LDHs, 94 h contact time.
		nutrient concentration	nutrient % removal
	mass	(ppm)	total	total
LDH	(g)	total P	total N	NO3−	P	N	NO3−
Mg4Al	0.1018	0.10	4.3	0.21	97%	23%	58%
Mg3.8AlZn0.2	0.1014	0.14	4.6	0.17	96%	18%	66%
Mg3.6AlZn0.4	0.1002	0.21	4.4	0.38	93%	21%	24%
Mg3AlZn	0.1003	0.23	5.4	0.49	93%	4%	2%
Mg3.8AlFe0.2	0.1012	0.15	4.8	0.30	95%	14%	40%
Mg3.6AlFe0.4	0.1006	0.19	5.1	0.22	94%	9%	56%
Mg3AlFe	0.1008	0.10	5.8	0.21	97%	−4%	58%
Mg3.8AlCu0.2	0.1000	0.16	4.6	0.12	95%	18%	76%
Mg3.6AlCu0.4	0.1003	0.12	5.3	0.38	96%	5%	24%
Mg3AlCu	0.1001	0.13	4.5	0.27	96%	20%	47%
initial	1.03	5.6	0.50	—
concentration

Table 12 shows total P and nitrate removal performance data for calcined, substituted Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where y=0.2, 0.4, and 1.0, in contact with a high-strength model solution for 10 minutes. The total P removal performance was strong for the formulations where X=Fe²⁺. The nitrate removal performance varied, however, it was generally consistent (˜10%) for each formulation in the group where X=Zn²⁺.

TABLE 12
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of high-strength,
model solution by calcined LDHs, 10 min contact time.
	nutrient
	concentration	nutrient %
	(ppm)	removal
LDH	mass (g)	total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
Mg4Al	0.1009	1.28	7.2	20%	8%
Mg3.8AlZn0.2	0.1013	1.44	7.0	10%	10%
Mg3.6AlZn0.4	0.1010	1.48	6.8	7%	13%
Mg3AlZn	0.1003	1.31	7.0	18%	10%
Mg3.8AlFe0.2	0.1002	0.68	7.4	58%	5%
Mg3.6AlFe0.4	0.1008	0.91	7.6	43%	3%
Mg3AlFe	0.1015	0.80	6.4	50%	18%
Mg3.8AlCu0.2	0.1007	1.37	6.6	14%	15%
Mg3.6AlCu0.4	0.1016	1.36	7.4	15%	5%
Mg3AlCu	0.1002	1.29	7.0	19%	10%
initial concentration	1.60	7.8	—

Table 13 shows total P and nitrate removal performance data for calcined, substituted Mg_4−yAlX_y LDHs, where y=0.2, 0.4, and 1.0, in contact with a high-strength model solution for 48 hours. The total P removal performance was >90% for all formulations where X=Fe²⁺ and Cu²⁺.

TABLE 13
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of high-strength,
model solution by calcined LDHs, 48 h contact time.
	nutrient
	concentration	nutrient %
	(ppm)	removal
LDH	mass	total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
Mg4Al	0.1009	0.08	7.0	95%	10%
Mg3.8AlZn0.2	0.1013	0.37	6.8	77%	13%
Mg3.6AlZn0.4	0.1010	0.20	7.2	87%	8%
Mg3AlZn	0.1003	0.06	7.0	97%	10%
Mg3.8AlFe0.2	0.1002	0.04	7.4	98%	5%
Mg3.6AlFe0.4	0.1008	0.07	6.8	96%	13%
Mg3AlFe	0.1015	0.04	7.2	98%	8%
Mg3.8AlCu0.2	0.1007	0.11	6.6	93%	15%
Mg3.6AlCu0.4	0.1016	0.14	7.4	91%	5%
Mg3AlCu	0.1002	0.06	7.0	96%	10%
initial concentration	1.60	7.8	—

To optimize the simultaneous removal of both P and nitrate, equal amounts of calcined Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2 and Mg_3.8 AlZn_0.2LDHs were combined and tested. Table 14 shows total P, total N, and nitrate removal performance data for a mixture of calcined Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2 and Mg_3.8AlZn_0.2 (0.10 g each) LDHs in contact with synthetic stormwater. The total P and nitrate removal performance exceeded 65% for both target nutrients, even at low contact time. The total N removal performance was also above 10%, indicating that some of the organic N fraction (in this case, glycine) was also removed. Similar results were obtained by using a lower loading of each LDH (0.05 g instead of 0.10 g), and those results are shown in Table 15.

TABLE 14
Total P, total N, and nitrate removal from 100 mL of
synthetic stormwater by a mixture of Mg3.8AlFe0.2 and
Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10 g each) calcined LDHs.
	nutrient
	concentration (ppm)	nutrient % removal
contact time	total P	total N	NO3−	total P	total N	NO3−
10 min	0.14	4.8	0.16	85%	14%	68%
48 h	0.03	3.5	0.01	97%	38%	98%
initial	0.93	5.6	0.5	—
concentration

TABLE 15
Total P, total N, and nitrate removal from 200 mL of
synthetic stormwater by a mixture of Mg3.8AlFe0.2
and Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05 g each) calcined LDHs.
	nutrient concentration (ppm)	nutrient % removal
contact time	total P	total N	NO3−	total P	total N	NO3−
10 min	n.m.	n.m.	0.26	—	—	50%
48 h	0.26	4.0	0.21	73%	11%	60%
initial	0.97	4.5	0.52	—
concentration
(n.m. = not measured)

Table 16 shows total P and nitrate removal performance data for a mixture of Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2 and Mg_3.8AlZn_0.2 (0.10 g each) calcined LDHs in contact with a high-strength model solution. The total P and nitrate removal performance at 48 h contact time were both above 75% for each nutrient. This experiment shows that the mixture of the two LDHs gives improved performance for nitrate removal, even in the presence of a higher concentration of competing phosphate anions.

TABLE 16
Total P, total N, and nitrate removal from 200
mL of high-strength model solution by a
mixture of Mg3.8AlFe0.2 and Mg3.8AlZn0.2
(0.10 g each) calcined LDHs (n.m. = not measured).
		nutrient
		concentration	nutrient %
		(ppm)	removal
	contact time	total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
	10 min	n.m.	6.2	—	21%
	48 h	0.33	0.2	79%	97%
	initial concentration	1.62	7.8	—

Example 4: Preparation of Exemplary Hydrogels/Control Polymers

A. Polyacrylamide (PAAm) Hydrogels

Acrylamide (AAm), N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA), and N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TEMED) were combined in water. Shown below are six exemplary solutions (volume of ˜10 mL) that were prepared, which encompass various mole ratios of monomer to crosslinker (AAm:MBA).

• • 1. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.130 g MBA, 7 mL water (50:1 AAm:MBA)
  • 2. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.065 g MBA, 7 mL water (100:1 AAm:MBA)
  • 3. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.032 g MBA, 7 mL water (200:1 AAm:MBA)
  • 4. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.013 g MBA, 7 mL water (500:1 AAm:MBA)
  • 5. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.009 g MBA, 7 mL water (750:1 AAm:MBA)
  • 6. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.0065 g MBA, 7 mL water (1000:1 AAm:MBA)

Next, 100 μL of a 23% ammonium persulfate (APS) (230 mg APS in 0.88 mL water) was added to each ˜10 mL solution. After 1 hour of polymerization, the PAAm hydrogels were each placed in deionized (DI) water to wash for 7 days.

B. Polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) Hydrogels

Polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) having an average molecular weight (MW) of 575 g/mol, N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA), and N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TEMED) were combined in water. Shown below are four exemplary solutions (volume of ˜10 mL) that were prepared, which encompass various mole ratios of monomer to crosslinker (PEGDA:MBA).

• • 1. 3 g PEGDA, 75 μL TEMED, 0.016 g MBA, 7 mL water (50:1 PEGDA:MBA)
  • 2. 3 g PEGDA, 75 μL TEMED, 0.008 g MBA, 7 mL water (100:1 PEGDA:MBA)
  • 3. 3 g PEGDA, 75 μL TEMED, 0.0032 g MBA, 7 mL water (200:1 PEGDA:MBA)
  • 4. 3 g PEGDA, 75 μL TEMED, 0.0008 g MBA, 7 mL water (500:1 PEGDA:MBA)

Next, 100 μL of a 23% ammonium persulfate (APS) stock solution (230 mg APS in 0.88 mL water) was added to each ˜10 mL solution. After 1 hour of polymerization, the PEGDA hydrogels were each placed in deionized (DI) water to wash for 7 days.

Example 5: Preparation of Exemplary LDH-Gels

Monomer (AAm or PEGDA having an average MW of 575 g/mol), N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA, the crosslinker), and N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TEMED, the catalyst) were combined in water (volume of ˜10 mL). LDH particles were then added at a predetermined LDH particle loading to form a suspension. Shown below are general LDH particle loading guidelines as well as eight exemplary reaction mixtures that were prepared, which encompass various LDH particle loadings (1.0, 10, 50, and 100 mg/mL).

LDH Particle Loading Guidelines:

• • · 1.0 mg/mL->˜10 mg LDH particles in ˜10 mL solution
  • · 10 mg/mL->˜100 mg LDH particles in ˜10 mL solution
  • · 50 mg/mL->˜0.5 g LDH particles in ˜10 mL solution
  • · 100 mg/mL->˜1.0 g LDH particles in ˜10 mL solution1 mg/mL LDH Particle Suspensions in Water:
  • 1. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.009 g MBA, 7 mL suspension (750:1 AAm: MBA)+˜10 mg LDH particles
  • 2. 3 g PEGDA, 75 L TEMED, 0.0008 g MBA, 7 mL suspension (500:1 PEGDA: MBA)+˜10 mg LDH particles10 mg/mL LDH Particle Suspensions in Water:

3. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.009 g MBA, 7 mL suspension (750:1 AAm: MBA)+˜100 mg LDH particles

• • 4. 3 g PEGDA, 75 μL TEMED, 0.0008 g MBA, 7 mL suspension (500:1 PEGDA: MBA)+˜100 mg LDH particles50 mg/mL LDH Particle Suspensions in Water:
  • 5. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.009 g MBA, 7 mL suspension (750:1 AAm: MBA)+˜0.5 g LDH particles
  • 6. 3 g PEGDA, 75 μL TEMED, 0.0008 g MBA, 7 mL suspension (500:1 PEGDA: MBA)+˜0.5 g LDH particles100 mg/mL LDH Particle Suspensions in Water:
  • 7. 3 g AAm, 75 μL TEMED, 0.009 g MBA, 7 mL suspension (750:1 AAm: MBA)+˜1.0 g LDH particles
  • 8. 3 g PEGDA, 75 μL TEMED, 0.0008 g MBA, 7 mL suspension (500:1 PEGDA: MBA)+˜1.0 g LDH particles

Each of the above-described reaction mixtures was divided into 600 μL sample reaction mixtures. 6 μL of a 23% ammonium persulfate (APS) stock solution (230 mg APS in 0.88 mL water) was added to each 1 x 600 μL sample. After 1 hour of polymerization, the LDH-gels were each placed in deionized (DI) water to wash for 7 days.

Example 6: Testing Exemplary LDH-Gels

Exemplary LDH-gels were prepared according to Example 4 with equal amounts of Fe-5 (Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2) and Zn-5 (Mg_3.8AlZn_0.2) LDH particles in each LDH-gel at various loadings (e.g., 1 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL, and 100 mg/mL). After synthesis and before testing, the LDH-gels were broken into chunks (˜0.5-1 cm in diameter) and washed repeatedly until the total nitrogen (N) content of the wash water was measured below 0.5 ppm. All experiments were carried out by packing LDH-gels into 60-mL syringes with gauze filters covering the outlet. The quantity of media (LDH-gel) loaded into each column was based on the LDH particle mass. The 10 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL, and 100 mg/mL loadings corresponded to 100 mg, 0.5 g, and 1.0 g of total LDH particles per column, respectively, to control for the density/water absorption differences between PEGDA and PAAm.

Control polymers (PEGDA and PAAm hydrogels) containing no LDH particles were loaded at comparable total volumes (approximately 20 mL for PEGDA and 60 mL for PAAm). As shown in the FIG. 14, the column is packed with the LDH-gel being tested (“media”). Synthetic stormwater (SSW) is then introduced to the top of the column via peristaltic pump (“pump”) at 10mL/min and allowed to run through. Each run was performed for 10 minutes, and the entire effluent of each run was collected to form a sample (“collected effluent”), which was analyzed for total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), and nitrate (NO₃⁻). The retention time (estimated from the interval between start of influent flow and start of effluent flow) in the columns was 8-12 seconds. The results are summarized in Tables 17-21 below and further in FIG. 15A, 15B, and 15C.

In general, these results show that, even at short contact times (≤10 min), the nitrate removal capabilities are retained by the LDHs once they are encapsulated in the hydrogel matrices. In particular, the LDH-gels containing both Fe-5 (Mg_3.8AlFe_0.2) and Zn-5 (Mg_3.8AlZn_0.2) LDH particles show improved NO3 removal performance compared to LDH-gels containing only Zn-5 (Mg_3.8AlZn0.2) LDH particles.

TABLE 17
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of
synthetic stormwater by LDH-gels, 10 min
contact time. LDH loading = 10 mg/mL.
		nutrient
		concentration	nutrient %
LDH-gel	calcined LDH and	(ppm)	removal
name	approximate mass (g)	total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
Zn-AAm	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	0.98	0.21	0%	60%
Zn-PEGDA	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	0.88	0.47	10%	10%
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	0.95	0.42	3%	19%
AAm	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	0.88	0.26	11%	50%
PEGDA	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
initial concentration	0.98	0.52	—

TABLE 18
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of synthetic
stormwater by LDH-gels, 48 h contact time
(n.m. = not measured). LDH loading = 10 mg/mL.
		nutrient
		concentration	nutrient %
LDH-gel	calcined LDH and	(ppm)	removal
name	approximate mass (g)	total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
Zn-AAm	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	n.m.	0.46	—	12%
Zn-PEGDA	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	0.33	0.41	66%	21%
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	n.m.	0.40	—	23%
AAm	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	0.29	0.20	70%	62%
PEGDA	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
initial concentration	0.98	0.52	—

TABLE 19
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of
high-strength model solution by LDH-gels,
10 min contact time. LDH loading = 10 mg/mL.
		nutrient
		concentration	nutrient %
LDH-gel	calcined LDH and	(ppm)	removal
name	approximate mass (g)	total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
Zn-AAm	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	1.70	5.8	1%	26%
Zn-PEGDA	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	1.60	6.4	6%	18%
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	1.98	6.2	−16%	21%
AAm	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	1.58	7.2	8%	8%
PEGDA	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
initial concentration	1.71	7.8	—

TABLE 20
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of high-strength
model solution by LDH-gels, 48 h contact time
(n.m. = not measured). LDH loading = 10 mg/mL.
		nutrient
		concentration	nutrient %
LDH-gel	calcined LDH and	(ppm)	removal
name	approximate mass (g)	total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
Zn-AAm	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	n.m.	3.6	—	54%
Zn-PEGDA	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	0.21	5.1	88%	35%
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	n.m.	3.9	—	50%
AAm	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	0.12	4.9	93%	37%
PEGDA	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
initial concentration	1.71	7.8	—

TABLE 21
Total P and nitrate removal from 100 mL of
synthetic stormwater by LDH-gels, single-pass
column experiment. LDH loading = 10 mg/mL.
		nutrient
		concentration	nutrient %
LDH-gel	calcined LDH and	(ppm)	removal
name	approximate mass (g)	total P	NO3−	total P	NO3−
Zn-AAm	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	1.04	0.41	−5%	22
Zn-PEGDA	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.10)	1.01	0.37	−3%	29
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	0.88	0.29	10	44
AAm	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
Zn + Fe-	Mg3.8AlZn0.2 (0.05)	1.08	0.35	−10%	33
PEGDA	Mg3.8AlFe0.2 (0.05)
initial concentration	0.98	0.52	—

For reasons of completeness, various aspects of the technology are set out in the following numbered embodiments:

Embodiment 1. A layered double hydroxide (LDH), the LDH comprising:

• • a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂, wherein:
    • X is Mn⁺², Cu⁺², Zn⁺², or Fe⁺², and 0.01≤y≤1.Embodiment 2. The layered double hydroxide of embodiment 1, wherein X is Zn⁺².Embodiment 3. The layered double hydroxide of embodiment 1, wherein X is Fe⁺².Embodiment 4. The layered double hydroxide of any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein 0.25 y≤1.Embodiment 5. The layered double hydroxide of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein y is 0.2.Embodiment 6. The layered double hydroxide of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein y is 0.4.Embodiment 7. The layered double hydroxide of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein y is 1.Embodiment 8. A layered double hydroxide hydrogel (LDH-gel), the LDH-gel comprising a hydrogel and at least one layered double hydroxide (LDH), the at least one LDH comprising:
  • a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂, wherein:
    • X is Mn⁺², Cu⁺², Zn⁺², or Fe⁺², and 0.01≤y≤1.Embodiment 9. The LDH-gel of embodiment 8, wherein the hydrogel comprises polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), polyacrylamide (PAAm), or combinations thereof.Embodiment 10. The LDH-gel of embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the hydrogel comprises polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA).Embodiment 11. The LDH-gel of embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the hydrogel comprises polyacrylamide (PAAm).Embodiment 12. The LDH-gel of any one of embodiments 8-11, wherein X is Zn⁺².Embodiment 13. The LDH-gel of any one of embodiments 8-11, wherein X is Fe⁺².Embodiment 14. The LDH-gel of any one of embodiments 8-13, wherein the LDH-gel comprises more than one LDH comprising a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂.Embodiment 15. The LDH-gel of any one of embodiments 8-14, wherein the LDH-gel comprises a first LDH comprising a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂ where X is Zn⁺² and a second LDH comprising a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂ where X is Fe⁺².Embodiment 16. The LDH-gel of any one of embodiments 8-15, wherein 0.25 y≤1.Embodiment 17. The LDH-gel of any one of embodiments 8-16, wherein y is 0.2.Embodiment 18. The LDH-gel of any one of embodiments 8-16, wherein y is 1.Embodiment 19. The LDH-gel of any one of embodiments 8-18, wherein the LDH-gel is in the form of a bead.Embodiment 20. A method of preparing layered double hydroxide (LDH) particles, the method comprising:
  • preparing a metal ion solution comprising magnesium chloride (MgCl2), aluminum chloride (AlCl3), and a transition metal chloride (XCl2);
  • adding a 2 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to the metal ion solution to form a first suspension comprising the LDH particles;
  • centrifuging the first suspension and decanting a first supernatant or filtering the LDH particles;
  • exposing the LDH particles to a 2 M sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) solution to form a second suspension comprising the LDH particles;
  • centrifuging the second suspension and decanting a second supernatant or filtering the LDH particles;
  • washing the LDH particles;
  • drying the LDH particles; and
  • calcining the LDH particles.Embodiment 21. The method of embodiment 20, wherein washing comprises a first washing step, a second washing step, and a third washing step, wherein:
  • the first washing step comprises washing the LDH particles with a solution comprising sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), and
  • the second and third washing steps comprise washing the LDH particles with pure water.Embodiment 22. The method of embodiment 20 or 21, wherein the transition metal chloride is MnCl₂, CuCl₂, ZnCl₂, or FeCl₂.Embodiment 23. The method of any one of embodiments 20-22, wherein calcining the LDH particles occurs at a temperature of 350° C. to 550° C.Embodiment 24. The method of any one of embodiments 20-23, wherein the LDH particles comprise:
  • a compound of formula Mg_4−yAlX_y(OH)₂, wherein:
    • X is Mn⁺², Cu⁺², Zn⁺², or Fe⁺², and 0.01≤ y≤1.Embodiment 25. The method of any one of embodiments 20-24, wherein X is Zn⁺2.Embodiment 26. The method of any one of embodiments 20-25, wherein X is Fe⁺2.Embodiment 27. A method of making a layered double hydroxide gel (LDH-gel), the method comprising:
  • forming a mixture, the mixture comprising:
    • a monomer,
    • a crosslinker,
    • a catalyst, and
    • LDH particles prepared according to embodiment 20;
  • adding an initiator to the mixture while stirring the mixture;
  • allowing the mixture to form a solid; and
  • washing the solid.Embodiment 28. The method of embodiment 27, wherein after allowing the mixture to form a solid, and before washing the solid, the solid is broken into pieces.Embodiment 29. The method of embodiment 27 or 28, wherein the method comprises:
  • forming the mixture in water; and
  • adding the mixture in water to an oil to form a water-in-oil emulsion.Embodiment 30. The method of any one of embodiments 27-29, wherein the oil is paraffin oil.Embodiment 31. The method of any one of embodiments 27-30, wherein the monomer is acrylamide (AAm) or polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA).Embodiment 32. The method of any one of embodiments 27-31, wherein the PEGDA monomer has an average molecular weight of 575 g/mol.Embodiment 33. The method of any one of embodiments 27-32, wherein ammonium persulfate (APS) is the initiator.Embodiment 34. The method of any one of embodiments 27-33, wherein N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TEMED) is the catalyst.Embodiment 35. The method of any one of embodiments 27-34, wherein N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) is the crosslinker.Embodiment 36. A filter, comprising an LDH-gel made according to any one of embodiments 27-35.

Claims

1-19. (canceled)

20. A method of preparing layered double hydroxide (LDH) particles, the method comprising: preparing a metal ion solution comprising magnesium chloride (MgCl2), aluminum chloride (AlCl3), and a transition metal chloride (XCl2);adding a 2 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to the metal ion solution to form a first suspension comprising the LDH particles;centrifuging the first suspension and decanting a first supernatant or filtering the LDH particles;exposing the LDH particles to a 2 M sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) solution to form a second suspension comprising the LDH particles;centrifuging the second suspension and decanting a second supernatant or filtering the LDH particles;washing the LDH particles;drying the LDH particles; andcalcining the LDH particles.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein washing comprises a first washing step, a second washing step, and a third washing step, wherein: the first washing step comprises washing the LDH particles with a solution comprising sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), andthe second and third washing steps comprise washing the LDH particles with pure water.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the transition metal chloride is MnCl2, CuCl2, ZnCl2, or FeCl2.

23. The method of claim 20, wherein calcining the LDH particles occurs at a temperature of 350° C. to 550° C.

24. The method of claim 20, wherein the LDH particles comprise: a compound of formula Mg4−yAlXy(OH)2, wherein: X is Mn+2, Cu+2, Zn+2, or Fe+2, and 0.01≤ y≤1.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein X is Zn+2.

26. The method of claim 24 , wherein X is Fe+2.

27. A method of making layered double hydroxide gel (LDH-gel), the method comprising: forming a mixture, the mixture comprising: a monomer,a crosslinker,a catalyst, andLDH particles prepared according to claim 20;adding an initiator to the mixture while stirring the mixture;allowing the mixture to form a solid; andwashing the solid.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein after allowing the mixture to form a solid, and before washing the solid, the solid is broken into pieces.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein the method comprises: forming the mixture in water; andadding the mixture in water to an oil to form a water-in-oil emulsion.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the oil is paraffin oil.

31. The method of claim 27, wherein the monomer is acrylamide (AAm) or polyethylene (glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA).

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the PEGDA monomer has an average molecular weight of 575 g/mol.

33. The method of claim 27, wherein ammonium persulfate (APS) is the initiator.

34. The method of claim 27, wherein N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TEMED) is the catalyst.

35. The method of claim 27, wherein N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) is the crosslinker.

36. A filter, comprising an LDH-gel made according to the method of claim 27.