Two-dimensional zeolites: dream or reality?

Delaminated and pillared zeolites, called here two-dimensional zeolites, are a promising and exciting area of solid materials research with high practical potential in adsorption and catalysis. Synthetic approaches for their preparation, crucial issues concerning reliable identification and characterization of these materials, and examples of their catalytic behaviour are highlighted in this contribution. Last, but not least, ideas and challenges for future progress of these materials are addressed.