The attractive properties of magadiite, a lamellar and crystalline material, could give rise to new industrial processes due to its unique and modulating intrinsic properties. In this context, the high degree of expansion of its lamellae, a key factor for its potential use in several areas of scientific research, has attracted the attention of several researchers. The aim of this review is to provide a historical overview of the hypothetical models developed to explain the magadiite crystalline structure. Furthermore, different synthesis strategies for the preparation of magadiites as sodic, protonic, and hybrid (inorganic-inorganic and inorganic-organic) materials are discussed along with several routes for obtaining modified magadiites. Also, the use of magadiite in catalytic reactions, notably in ethanol dehydration and fructose conversion reactions, is a growing area of research. Other potential applications include the adsorption and absorption of environmental pollutants (e.g., phenol and methylene blue in wastewater), use as a photocatalyst in the oxidation of toluene, and use in medicine (e.g., as a drug delivery or antibacterial/antifungal agent). This highlights the many opportunities for the development of new synthesis methods to obtain multifunctional materials in the search for new applications.
Keywords: direct synthesis; lamellar silicate; magadiite; medicine; photocatalyst; postsynthesis method.