Synthesis and assembly of rare earth nanostructures directed by the principle of coordination chemistry in solution-based process

In this review, several typical nanomaterials are selected to demonstrate the coordination effect on the control of structure/microstructure/texture, surface/interface, particle size and morphology. Based on the principle of coordination chemistry, with some solution-based methods including solvothermal treatment and the thermolysis of metal complex precursors, a series of novel nanostructured rare earth compounds, such as ultra-small colloidal ceria nanoparticles, highly homogenous and stable ceria–zirconia solid solutions, and high-quality rare earth oxide and fluoride nanocrystals, etc., have been prepared by elaborately controlling the synthetic parameters and reaction kinetics. In order to reveal the mechanisms of synthesis, assembly, and properties, the phase, microstructure, texture, and surface state have been characterized systematically. The main applications of coordination chemistry principle in the synthesis and assembly of rare earth nanocrystals have been summarized, which also can be extended to direct the fabrication of other nanomaterials.