Synthesis of nanometer-sized ceria particles by alternating current electrolysis of aqueous solution

Ceria particles in an average size range from 8 to 70 nm were synthesized from cerium nitrate solutions by electrolysis at AC 0.1–10 Hz using platinum wire electrodes at 25–80 °C. The produced ceria particles dissolved in low pH solutions (pH 1.1–2.7) at a longer electrolysis time (>12 h), which caused the decrease of particle size. Increase of the concentration of Ce3+ ions and increase of the electrolysis temperature were effective to enhance the particle yield. Small growth of particles (10–20 nm) was measured when the electrolysis temperature was increased to 60–80 °C. When the applied frequency was increased, the particle size decreased. A theoretical equation of particle size as functions of Ce3+ ion concentration, electrolysis temperature and applied frequency was derived. The experimental results were in accordance with the prediction from the theoretical model.