Intercalation of the herbicide atrazine in layered double hydroxides for controlled-release applications

BACKGROUND: The herbicide atrazine was intercalated in the interlayer region of Mg/AI layered double hydroxides in order to produce a nanohybrid that could be used in controlled-release applications. RESULTS: The hydrophobic herbicide was incorporated in artificial membranes formed in the interlayer of the inorganic host by using palmitic acid. The synthetic nanohybrid material was characterised by various techniques, and release studies were carried out. In addition, the photosynthetic alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii Dang. was treated with the atrazine-containing nanohybrid, which exerted an herbicidal efficacy similar to that of the free herbicide. CONCLUSION: The herbicide containing nanohybrid could enable a controlled release of the herbicide. In addition, the herbicide would be delivered close to its site of uptake, enhancing efficiency and reducing the required doses. (C) 2011 Society of Chemical Industry