Controlled modification of sodium montmorillonite clay by a planetary ball-mill as a versatile tool to tune its properties

Abstract

The effect of the energy supplied (Esupp) by the planetary ball-mill on montmorillonite clay is studied. Sodium montmorillonite clay was subjected to different energies supplied, and the effects were followed by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and specific surface area (BET). The results show that between 1.7 J/g 6Esupp 64.8 J/g, the separation, delamination, and exfoliation of the clay layers occur. At Esupp P6.6 J/g, the stacking of the layers is lost. At E supp = 13.2 J/g, the maximum specific surface area is obtained. Between 26.4 J/g 6Esupp 638.5 J/g, a transition occurs, and the clay becomes amorphous. These results establish criteria based on the planetary ball-mill’s energy to modify the montmorillonite structure optimally.