Abstract: Nanomers formed by contacting a layered material, e.g., a nanoclay, with a surface treatment monomer having a hydroxyl and/or an aromatic ring functionality to sorb (intercalate) the monomer between adjacent nanolayers. Sufficient surface treatment monomer is adsorbed to expand the nanolayers to a spacing of at least 5 Å, and up to a distance of 100 Å, so that the Nanomer can be exfoliated. The Nanomer can be combined with an organic liquid to form a viscous carrier material for delivery of the carrier, or for delivery of an active compound; or the Nanomer can be combined with a matrix polymer to form a nanocomposite. Alternatively, the Nanomer can be exfoliated prior to or after combination with the organic liquid or the matrix polymer.