Synthesis and structural analysis of mesoporous magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles as efficient catalyst

Nanoplatelets of magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂) were synthesized by the solvothermal method using ethylene glycol as solvent. In order to investigate the morphology and composition, the product was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms. It was clear from the TEM images that the product was constituted of thin-walled nanoplatelets with a size distribution of ~20–100 nm. The antibacterial and catalytic properties of the product were studied. The antibacterial activity was tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. The results of antibacterial activity indicated that the nanoplatelets might be functioning as effective therapeutic agents. The catalytic stability and property of the nanoplatelets are discussed by choosing the reduction of 4-nitrophenol as a model reaction. The kinetic data of catalysis show that the nanoplatelets might be used as an effective catalyst for reduction reactions.