The effect of the morphology of nanocrystalline CeO2 on ethanol reforming

CeO2 nanocrystals of cubic and rod shape have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions on controlling the pH, temperature and duration of reaction. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy indicates that exposed crystal planes are {1 1 0} and {1 0 0} for rods but {1 0 0} for cubes. These nanocrystals have been used in the preparation of a Rh/CeO2 catalyst on an Al2O3 support to test the catalytic activity for ethanol reforming. These catalysts as prepared show good H2 selectivity compared to catalysts with irregular CeO2 nanoparticles. The {1 0 0}/{1 1 0}-dominant surface structures play a crucial role in enhancing ethanol reforming; this reaction is important for fuel-cell applications.