The effect of mechanical treatment on the structure of montmorillonite

X-ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy and thermal analysis were used to follow in detail the extent of decomposition of the structure of Ca- and imidazolium-saturated montmorillonite upon grinding in a laboratory vibration mill. Ca-saturated mineral is more resistant toward mechanical destruction. Complete breakdown of its layers was achieved within 3 h, while in the organoclay within 2 h. This feature is promising for many applications, such as in polymer–clay nanocomposites.