Characterisation of organoclays and adsorption of p-nitrophenol: Environmental application

► The expansions of organoclays with and without adsorbed p-nitrophenol were investigated. ► X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that structural changes occurred within the interlayer of the organoclays. ► TEM images of the organoclays were not only linear but curved or bent. ► This research provides important information on the mechanisms for the adsorption of organic molecules on organoclays.