The synthesis of clay nanoplates usually involves the exfoliation of bulk clay materials. This can be achieved through several methods, including mechanical delamination, chemical exfoliation, and thermal treatment. Mechanical delamination involves the physical separation of the layers using ultrasonic or shear forces. Chemical exfoliation uses intercalation agents, such as surfactants or polymers, to insert between the layers and separate them. Thermal treatment involves heating the clay to high temperatures to induce separation of the layers.
