Controllable Synthesis and Growth Mechanism of Ceria Nanocubes by Template-Free Hydrothermal Method

Different crystal planes of CeO₂ have a different number of broken bonds, surface energy and catalytic activities, so preparing the CeO₂ with different exposed planes has attracted extensive attention. In recent years, the preparation of CeO₂ nanocubes with {100} exposed plane has been a real hotspot of research because of its good catalytic performance. Based on the research about the alkali concentration, reaction temperature and reaction time, the formation mechanism of CeO₂ nanocubes was explored. It is believed that the dissolution-recrystallization process is accelerated in the condition of strong base, high temperature and high pressure. In other word, the Ostwald ripening process is strengthened, which is the decisive factor for the formation of CeO₂ nanocubes.