Abstract: The adsorption method is a simple, economical, efficient and sustainable method for the treatment of pollutants in water, with wide applications. It is urgent to develop and prepare new efficient, green and environmentally friendly adsorption materials. The new functional polymer/clay nanocomposites (PCNs) prepared by composite polymers and clay minerals are characterized by large specific surface area, high adsorption efficiency and stable chemical properties, which reveals prominent advantages and great development potential in sewage treatment. The research progress of PCNs in the wastewater treatment was summarized from the aspects of adsorbent characteristics, main categories, pollutant removal types and application in wastewater treatment technology. The influencing factors of pollutant removal efficiency of PCNs were analyzed, and the research prospect of PCNs in water treatment was prospected.