Macroporous poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) beads and poly(styrene-divinylbenzene)/clay nanocomposites were prepared by traditional suspension polymerization in the presence of toluene and heptane, as diluents. SEM images show the effect of clay on the size and pore structure of nanocomposite beads. As expected, the highest surface area was achieved by the beads prepared in presence of heptane. Moreover, the BET results showed the presence of clay platelets within the beads increased the surface area. The XRD results for nanocomposites showed both intercalated and exfoliated morphologies and TEM images approved XRD results. The mechanical tests in compressive mode performed on porous samples revealed improved mechanical strength of the porous nanocomposite beads.