In this paper, adsorptive performance of natural clay of bentonite type has been investigated as a potential VOC adsorbent on the basis its promising physical-chemical and morphological properties which were compared to commercial gamma-Al2O3 solid. The vapour-solid adsorption isotherms of xylene were measured at different temperatures ranging from 300 to 373 K using dynamical method and the obtained data confronted to classical models such as Langmuir and Freundlich. On the other hand, the solids physico-chemical characteristics and adsorptive performances were correlated to some cost aspects because of their importance for design and engineering of adsorption plant. The results shows the interest of a local clay natural of bentonite type for treatment of VOCs emitted in working places regarding its performances and lower cost. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.