Focusing on layered compounds at the core of materials intercalation chemistry, this reference comprehensively explores clays and other classes of materials exhibiting the ability to pillar, or establish permanent intracrystalline porosity within layers. It offers an authoritative presentation of their fundamental properties as well as summaries of cutting-edge research results. Outlines modern usages of clays and other layered materials, including catalytic and photocatalytic applications. With chapters that explain basic concepts first before delving into more scientifically complex topics, the Handbook of Layered Materials Examines chemistry of clays, pillared clays, and pillared clay heterostructuresScrutinizes layered zirconium phosphates and phosphonates, double hydroxides, manganese oxides, metal chalcogenides, and polysilicatesOffers clear descriptions of clay-organic interactions and devotes one chapter specifically to nitroaromatic compound sorptionCovers findings in photochemistry and the molecular modeling of surface chemistryReports recent developments in synthesis, characterization, and host-guest chemistryContains over 2300 current references, formatting many into expedient tables The companion publication to the lauded Handbook of Zeolite Science and Technology (Marcel Dekker, Inc.) from the same expert editors, this reference is ideal for materials chemists and engineers; chemical engineers; and graduate-level students in these disciplines.