Abstract Montmorillonite is an extraordinary, naturally occurring plate-like material ~1 nm thick with dimensions of at least 150-200 nm with robust mechanical properties (the modulus is ~ 180 GPa). It is non-toxic (the FDA classification of montmorillonite is GRAS (‘generally regarded as safe’ for most applications)). The surface area of the particle is enormous (>750m 2 /g). The capacity of montmorillonite to have a negative charge allows for the modification of the montmorillonite with quaternary ammonium ions (which have a positive charge) to displace the inorganic counter ions associated with the mineral. This displacement provides a wide range of hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance on the surface of montmorillonite which is key to the utilization of organomontmorillonites in a wide range of different markets (rheology control for coatings, inks, oil-well drilling fluids, grease, etc. and polymer nanocomposites). The utility of organomontmorillonite is not discussed here. The significant independent variables that relate to successful preparation of organo-montmorillonites are described below and listed in the conclusions.