Raman Spectroscopy for Characterization of Hydrotalcite-like Materials Used in Catalytic Reactions

This chapter covers a brief review of the definition, structural characteristics and main applications of hydrotalcite, an interesting multifunctional material which finds applicability in different areas. Particularly, some catalytic reactions using hydrotalcite or mixed oxides derived from these materials are addressed (Ethanol Steam Reforming, Photochemical conversions, Hydrodesulfurization). The use of Raman Spectroscopy associated with other techniques, such as powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Extended X-ray Absorption Fine-Structure (EXAFS), Temperature Programmed Reduction of hydrogen (H2-TPR), Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Density Functional Theory (DFT) simulations, to characterize this type of material is addressed through examples described in the current literature. In this sense, multidisciplinary efforts must be made in order to increase the understanding of the properties of these materials and the catalytic behavior in the most varied reactions.