Abstract: Nanomers prepared by reacting a layered material, e. g. a nanoclay, with a coupling agent and co-intercalating an onium ion and an oligomer or polymer between the adjacent nanoclay layers. The distance between adjacent nanoclay layers is expanded at least 3 Å, up to 20 Å with the onium ion spacing/compatibilizing agent. The intercalation of the oligomer or polymer then increases the spacing of adjacent layers an additional 25-30 Å, and provides a nanocomposite having increased tensile strength, flexibility, and ductility. This patent also provides for the preparation of Nanomer masterbatches suitable for exfoliation into nanocomposites with similar properties. Masterbatches are particularly useful for the creation of polyolefin nanocomposites.