Synthesis and characterization of a PbO2-clay nanocomposite: Removal of lead from water using montmorillonite

► In the clay, Pb replaces Na ions and a significant restructuring at the particle scale is observed. ► Pb influenced significantly the thermal behaviour of the clay with regard to its dehydration. ► In the interlayer space, the exchange of Na by Pb leads to a decrease in the protonic conductivity. ► A PbO2-clay nanocomposite material with good conductivity is synthesized.