On the dielectric response of complex layered oxides: Mica-type silicates and layered double hydroxides

Abstract

The dielectric properties of mica-type silicates and layered double hydroxides have been studied in the pristine and various intercalated forms in the frequency range 101–107 Hz. A relaxation peak has been observed for the pristine silicate, whereas the pristine layered double hydroxide exhibits an anomalous low-frequency dispersion. The dielectric response is rationalized in terms of structural ordering and fluctuation of charge carriers as well as models invoking fractal time processes and fractal structure. The response is also related to the structure and mobility of the intercalated water molecules. In both pristine hosts, the predominant conduction mechanism is proton hopping between sites generated by a network of intercalated water molecules. Silicate intercalated with the insulating form of polyaniline exhibits an almost frequency-independent response. In the case of conducting polyaniline intercalated silicate, where polarons are the majority charge carriers, an anomalous low-frequency dispersion is observed and the response is typical of a metal-insulator composite. Finally, impedance measurements have been used to calculate the spatial disorder and/or surface irregularity of the host layers, expressed by the fractal dimension ds. The changes observed in ds upon intercalation of high-charge ions are correlated to the stacking disorder of the host layers.