Synthesis and characterization of magnetically modified clay composites

The interaction of acetic acid vapors with iron-exchanged montmorillonites leads to iron acetate intercalates which upon pyrolysis transform to magnetic gamma-iron oxide nanoparticles dispersed onto the external surface of the clay mineral. As these novel clay composites retain the original swelling and cation-exchange properties of the mineral, the synthesis of various clay derivatives is readily attained. X-ray diffraction, electron spin resonance, Mossbauer spectroscopy, magnetic measurements, and transmission electron microscopy provide evidence for the formation of magnetic iron oxide phase and also for its location in the clay structure.