Clays and clay minerals show variability, diversity and complexity in their structural, chemical
and physical properties. A variety of instruments and experimental techniques has been
employed in clay-mineral research. A wider scope of research has been opened by investigators
in various branches of science and technology due to their increasing interest in such materials.
Electron microscopy is one of the important methods for studying clays and clay minerals.
Although a previous contribution of electron microscopy was to clarify the morphology of fine
clay particles, the outstanding recent development of improved instruments and techniques
has provided more detailed information on the crystal-morphological and structural properties.
About ten years ago, we discussed the possibility of making a picture-atlas of clays and
clay minerals, based on selected samples as well as instruments and techniques in Japan. However,
with the continuous improvement of instruments and techniques which has followed ever
since, we have been obliged to spend much time in realizing our hope.
The present volume provides a picture-atlas of electron micrographs of clays and clay minerals,
and is also intended to serve as a lively textbook and technical reference book having multiple
functions.