Studies on conducting polymer intercalated layered double hydroxide nanocomposites: Antituberculosis drug delivery agents

The synthesis of layered double hydroxide (LDH) was carried out using different ratios of Mg:Al. The intercalation of polypyrrole (Ppy) within interlayer space of LDH was carried out via ultrasonication using different loadings of the conducting polymer. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and XRD analysis showed successful intercalation of Ppy in LDH while UV-visible spectra confirmed polaronic state of the conducting polymer within the LDH. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy studies showed successful incorporation of Ppy and loading of the drug was also established. The concentration of Rifampicin, an antituberculosis drug in LDH/Ppy, was confirmed by Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The in vitro release characteristics showed sustained release behaviour at pH 7.4 for a period of 180 hours. The nanocomposites exhibited immense potential for their application as Rifampicin drug carriers.