Preparations of organo-vermiculite with large interlayer space by hot solution and ball milling methods: A comparative study

► Hot solution and ball milling methods produce organo-vermiculites respectively. ► Large interlayer spaces are obtained under their optimized preparation conditions. ► Hot solution and ball milling methods show different behaviors. ► The product of hot solution has higher thermal stability and low surface energy. ► Ball milling causes larger interlayer space and high surface energy for the product.