Synthesis and Characterization of CexZr1-xO2 using Supercritical Water

Research subject: 

Due to the public's attention on the environmental issues as well as strict environmental regulations, the eco-friendly methods for nanoparticles have received considerable attention in the recent years.
Research approach: In the present study, a mixed oxide nanoparticles containing cerium and zirconium (Cex-Zr1-xO2) was fabricated the in supercritical water (SCW) medium. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by various analyses, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

The results of the analyses demonstrated that fine nanoparticles with mean size of 13±3 nm, with high crystallinity, and with appropriate size distribution and surface area were synthesized by SCW. Moreover, an oxygen storage capacity (OSC) as high as 1.25 mmol O2/g was estimated for Cex-Zr1-xO2 nanoparticles through temperature programmed reduction in hydrogen (H2-TPR). According to the obtained results, the Cex-Zr1-xO2 nanoparticles could be a suitable candidate for catalysts of oxidation processes as well as three-way catalyst for control of automotive exhaust gases.