Continuous flow synthesis of ceria nanoparticles using static T-mixers

Ceria nanoparticles are of interest owing to their interesting properties like photo-absorption and ability to absorb oxygen. Several batch synthesis routes exist however these methods often lack particle size control, result in agglomeration and typically require high temperature processing. In this paper, a continuous flow microchannel synthesis method based on precipitation is demonstrated with a static T-mixer, showing improved control over agglomeration through the manipulation of flow parameters. Three flow rates were chosen representing different mixing modes and computational fluid dynamics simulations were used to visualize flow conditions. The nanoparticles were characterized for composition, size and size distribution using transmission electron microscopy, wave dispersive spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction. The engulfment flow condition, corresponding to the highest Reynolds number in this study, gave the narrowest particle size distribution (15.0±4.7 nm) and best compositional uniformity.

► Static T shaped micromixer used to synthesize ceria nanoparticles.
► Engulfment flow regime used in nanoparticle synthesis.
► Mixing condition affects particle characteristics like size, size distribution, composition and crystallinity.
► Nearly spherical ceria nanoparticles of average size 15 nm were synthesized.