Preparation of trimethylchlorosilane-modified acid vermiculites for removing diethyl phthalate from water

► A hybrid organic-inorganic adsorbent based on acid vermiculite was prepared. ► The specific surface area of this adsorbent was much larger than that of traditional organoclay. ► The adsorbent exhibited strong organic affinity for the removal of hydrophobic pollutant. ► The length of alkyl chain of organic modifier was not the key factor for the adsorption performance of organoclay.