Structural and cathodoluminiscent properties of Zr0.95Ce0.05O2 nanopowders prepared by sol-gel and template methods

► Ce-doped zirconia nanopowders were synthesized by sol-gel and colloidal crystal template processes. ► XRD and SEM determinations indicate the formation of nanoparticles with average size of ∼35-40 nm. ► A microstructure with open, interconnected macropores was successfully prepared using PMMA colloidal crystal. ► Cathodoluminiscence spectra in the 300-800 nm wavelength range depend strongly on the synthesis route.