Design and characterization of ▫$CeO_2$▫ nanoparticles with controlled morphology

CeO2 nanoparticles with isometric and rod-like morphologies were successfully synthesized through a simple hydrothermal method. The morphological evolution between isometric and nanorod morphologies was achieved by adjusting the concentration of NaOH, which affects the formation and morphological evolution of CeO2 nanoparticles. The structure and properties of the CeO2-xNaOH powders were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, low temperature nitrogen adsorption, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Also, the ceria nanopowders were tested as a photocatalyst for the photodegradation of crystal violet dye in an aqueous solution. In summary, a straightforward and controllable approach for synthesizing CeO2 nanoparticles with isometric and/or rod-like morphologies was demonstrated, utilizing simple starting materials in a hydrothermal system. The results present an economical method for synthesizing nanosized ceria and related materials. Additionally, understanding of the mechanism of morphology evolution provides new insights and strategies for the controlled synthesis of nanostructures.