Assembly of exfoliated α‐zirconium phosphate nanosheets: Mechanisms and versatile applications

Abstract α‐Zirconium phosphate (Zr(HPO 4 ) 2 ·H O, α‐ZrP) is an inorganic layered compound. Since the first report of crystalline α‐ZrP in 1964, thanks to its simple synthesis and unique physiochemical properties, has found widespread application many fields including mechanical reinforcing, barrier improvement, flame retardancy, anticorrosion, catalysis, environment, energy, medicine. Because ease exfoliation obtain single‐layer nanosheets, as well rich surface chemistry high density orderly arranged acidic hydroxyl groups, nanosheets are ideal building blocks for self‐assembly or assembly with other chemicals. The could form a randomly dispersed structure (isotropic), roughly ordered (nematic), highly (smectic) within liquid colloids solid hybrids (including hydrogels). Thanks combination structures novel functions components, assembled materials have wide verity applications due their excellent properties. In this article, methods synthesize α‐ZrP, approaches mechanisms exfoliate strategies assemble various structures, reviewed. emerging prospects key material next‐generation functional envisioned.