Abstract: Clay minerals are abundant, cheap and readily available. The clay particles are fine and can be used in various industrial applications. However, due to the geological evolution, the surface activity is decreased or lost. The "nanometerization effect" is eliminated by particle aggregation and shaping. Clay minerals that have not been functionally modified cannot meet the requirements of current new materials and new technologies. Therefore, physical and chemical transformation of clay mineral materials is required. In view of different industrial applications, this review summarizes the active excitation and functionalization preparation techniques such as activation, grafting and intercalation in the application of clay silicate minerals.