Abstract: The kinetics of Cu ion exchange on Na-montmorillonite clay mineral has been investigated at three temperatures, in three solvents: H2O, ethylene glycol and glycerol. Solvent effects on the reaction rate have been discussed. The thermodynamic activation parameters were calculated and discussed in terms of solvation effects. The determined isokinetic temperature indicates that the reaction is enthalpy controlled where the interaction between solvent and clay surface plays an important role. A reaction mechanism which describes the solvent effect on the rate of Cu ion exchange is proposed.