Shape-selective synthesis of CeO2 via an EDTA-assisted route

Nanoparticles and sub-microrods of cubic CeO2 were selectively prepared via an ethylendiamine tetraacetate (EDTA)-assisted route. They were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and infrared (IR) techniques. Controlling the reaction process, we obtained CeO2 with different shapes. Sub-microrods were formed via an incomplete reaction while uniform nanoparticles were formed through a complete reaction between NaClO3 and Ce–EDTA complexes. The addition of EDTA was critical to obtain CeO2 sub-microrods and nanoparticles. Other experimental conditions, such as EDTA/Ce3+ molar ratio and the reaction time were of importance in the final product morphology. A possible formation mechanism of CeO2 was discussed.