biostudies-literatureKim JHNational Research Foundation of KoreaJapan Society for the Promotion of Science7880https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC10185575biostudies-literatureUnknown13(1)We report on the layer-dependent stability of muscovite-type two-dimensional (2D) mica nanosheets (KAl₃Si₃O₁₀(OH)₂). First-principles calculations on mica nanosheets with different layer thicknesses (n = 1, 2, and 3) reveal their layer-dependent stability; odd-numbered 2D mica nanosheets are more stable than even-numbered ones, and the preferable stability of odd-numbered layers originates from electronic effects. A core-shielding model is proposed with a reasonable assumption, successfully proving the instability of the even-numbered mica nanosheets. Raman imaging supports that the population of odd-numbered mica nanosheets is predominant in exfoliated mica products. The alternating charge states with odd/even layers were evidenced by Kelvin probe force microscopy. We also demonstrate a unique photocatalytic degradation, opening new doors for environmental applications of mica nanosheets.Scientific reportsLayer-dependent stability of 2D mica nanosheets.PMC1018557521H0501521K1902321H046172021R1A2C1009790Kim SSKim HWWu PWu SOsada MKim JHKulish VVShi YfalseLayer-dependent stability of 2D mica nanosheets.We report on the layer-dependent stability of muscovite-type two-dimensional (2D) mica nanosheets (KAl₃Si₃O₁₀(OH)₂). First-principles calculations on mica nanosheets with different layer thicknesses (n = 1, 2, and 3) reveal their layer-dependent stability; odd-numbered 2D mica nanosheets are more stable than even-numbered ones, and the preferable stability of odd-numbered layers originates from electronic effects. A core-shielding model is proposed with a reasonable assumption, successfully proving the instability of the even-numbered mica nanosheets. Raman imaging supports that the population of odd-numbered mica nanosheets is predominant in exfoliated mica products. The alternating charge states with odd/even layers were evidenced by Kelvin probe force microscopy. We also demonstrate a unique photocatalytic degradation, opening new doors for environmental applications of mica nanosheets.2023-01-01T00:00:00Z2023 May2025-04-18T15:14:09.241Z2025-04-07T01:54:29.312ZS-EPMC101855753718874510.1038/s41598-023-34465-5