Open space formation with mechanically-bent single layer of inorganic minerals

In this work, the feasibility of open space formation with a mechanically-bent single layer in an exfoliated state is explored for inorganic minerals as saponite clay. MD simulations predict the formation of ∼ 1 nm- and ∼ 4 nm-sized columnar open spaces with three bent nanosheets and folded 2D nanosheet, respectively. The former open space with the three bent nanosheets could appear as suggested by the results of positron lifetime spectroscopy.In this work, the feasibility of open space formation with a mechanically-bent single layer in an exfoliated state is explored for inorganic minerals as saponite clay. MD simulations predict the formation of ∼ 1 nm- and ∼ 4 nm-sized columnar open spaces with three bent nanosheets and folded 2D nanosheet, respectively. The former open space with the three bent nanosheets could appear as suggested by the results of positron lifetime spectroscopy.