Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) of Mn with Co were successfully synthesized via polyol reduction method. Morphology and particle size of the LDHs were thoroughly characterized using advanced techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The elemental composition of the composites was studied with energy dispersive X-ray analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Morphology of the LDHs varied from small irregular particles to larger aggregates with increasing the reaction temperatures viz. 50, 70, 110, 150 and 200 degrees C. The meso-ordering, crystallinity and chemical composition also varied with change in reaction temperature. The LDHs enhanced the burning rates of composite solid propellants to many folds. Simultaneous thermo gravimetric analysis - differential scanning calorimetry revealed that the burning rate enhancement by the LDHs was due to their exceptional catalytic activity in the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate. The LDH that was synthesized at 110 degrees C was found to be the best catalyst among all.