Two decades of ceria nanoparticle research: structure, properties and emerging applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemistry

Background:

• Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeNPs) exhibit unique properties influenced by size, shape, surface chemistry, and defects.
• The coexistence of Ce³⁺/Ce⁴⁺ oxidation states in CeNPs creates oxygen vacancies, crucial for their reactivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advances in CeNP development over the past two decades.
• To explore structural determinants of CeNP activity and their translation into applications.
• To highlight key properties, synthesis, interactions, and emerging applications of CeNPs.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of cerium oxide nanoparticles and ceria-based nanostructures.
• Analysis of structural factors influencing nanoparticle properties and performance.
• Identification of synthesis, functionalization, and coating methods impacting CeNP characteristics.

Main Results:

• CeNP properties are highly dependent on synthesis methods, surface modifications, and defect engineering.
• Oxygen vacancies and defect states confer high reactivity and oxygen buffering capacity.
• CeNPs demonstrate significant potential in catalysis, chemical mechanical planarization, sensing, biomedical applications, and environmental remediation.

Conclusions:

• CeNPs are versatile nanomaterials with transformative potential across various industries.
• Tailoring CeNP structure and properties is key to unlocking novel products and innovations.
• CeNPs offer promising solutions for societal challenges and technological advancements.