Preparation and characterization of the Cloisite Na+ modified with cationic surfactants

An easy method was used to modify the Cloisite Na+ with different cationic surfactants. To prevent the damages in the clay crystal structure, the process was taken without acid activation. The organo-modified montmorillonite (MMT) were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal analysis (TG/DTG), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and dispersibility measurements. The XRD patterns showed basal spacing increased. FTIR and TG/DTG results showed a good amount of organic compounds in all organo-modified samples. Dipersibility measurements indicated that hydrophilic Cloisite Na+ turned to be organophilic and hydrophobic, in organo-modified MMTs. According to the results the modification was successful with the least harm in the Cloisite Na+ crystalline structure and less environmental damages. These organo-modified MMTs are capable of removing environmental pollutants from aqueous environments.