Graphene/montmorillonite and graphene oxide/montmorillonite hybrids as functional nanomaterials: a view in the current literature

In hybrids derived from graphene or graphene oxide and montmorillonite (MMT) clay, the phyllosilicate matrix of MMT provides stability to the carbonaceous layer structure of graphene. The formation of hybrids improves the physicochemical properties and biocompatibility of the individual components. In addition to enhancing the chemical reactivity of MMT, the synthesis of hybrids with graphene or its derivatives may offer enhanced properties. The synergistic properties of the organic and inorganic components of the hybrids result in functional materials, as demonstrated in various fields, such as environmental remediation, adsorption, catalysis, materials science, biology, and biomedical sciences. In this review, we present the main routes for synthesizing the hybrids of graphene and its derivatives with MMT. We discuss the effects of the structure and interactions between the constituents on the formation of composites. Furthermore, major characterization techniques and material properties, such as structural, morphological, textural, and thermal properties, are discussed. (author)