Abstract: Kaolinite,as the primary mineral component of kaolin,is widely applied in industries such as biotechnology,
chemical engineering,and environmental sectors,owing to its unique physicochemical properties and structural characteristics .
However,in practical applications,natural kaolinite exhibits inherent limitations,including strong interlayer forces and insufficient
active sites,which hinder its direct use. Furthermore,research on the structural regulation of kaolinite is still insufficient,
and the specific mechanisms and influencing factors remain unclear,which severely restricts the upgrading of its processing
technology and its high-value applications. To address these challenges,this study systematically reviews five major kaolinite
structural modification techniques:calcination,intercalation-exfoliation,mechanochemical activation,acid leaching,and alkali
leaching. The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms of action,influencing factors,and the strengths and
weaknesses of each method. Furthermore,by examining the application advancements of kaolinite in fields such as biomedical,
energy storage,adsorption,and polymer materials,the paper demonstrates that structural modification technologies can facilitate
the transformation of kaolinite from a basic mineral resource into a high-performance functional material. Finally,the study critically
examines the limitations of current research,particularly in the areas of kaolinite crystallography and structural regulation
mechanisms,the utilization of low-quality ores,and the development of green processing technologies. The paper also outlines
prospective directions for research,including precise structure-activity relationship regulation,the high-value utilization of lowgrade
ores,and green synergistic modification. This research aims to provide theoretical support and technical references for the high-value and deep utilization of kaolin resources,contributing to the high-quality and sustainable development of the kaolin
industry in China.

Key words: kaolinite,structural regulation,mineral-based functional materials,high-value applications