Demand on high-performance ion exchangers is ever-increasing in energy and environment applications. Among many cation exchangers, layered alkali titanates generally show larger cation exchange capacity, but slower cation exchange rate due to their 2D micrometer-size particle morphologies, which limits their practical applications. We report a rational conversion of a layered sodium titanate, Na₂Ti₃O₇, to the corresponding 1D, 1 nm-thick nanowires via hydrothermal treatment under a specific basic condition [4]. The formation of nanowires is thought to involve the partial exfoliation of Na₂Ti₃O₇ to form thin plate-like particles that subsequently split into nanowires along a crystallographically defined, chemically selective weakness in the Na₂Ti₃O₇ crystals (Fig. 1). The cation exchange rate and amount of Na₂Ti₃O₇ nanowire was much faster and higher, respectively, than those of existing cation exchangers such as zeolites and organic resins.

We are aiming at the development of high-performance, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly materials alternative to existing commodities and industrial products including ion exchangers/adsorbents, sunscreen/cosmetic products, and catalysts. [1-4]