In situ encapsulation of ultra small ceria nanoparticles stable at high temperatures in the channels of mesoporous silica

Ultra small ceria nanoparticles of sizes <2 nm stable at 500 °C are encapsulated in the channels of mesoporous silica by employing a novel method of synthesis. The method involves modifying non-ionic polymer templates with ionic surfactants to enhance anchoring of metal ion precursors. In this way, further silica wall formation around the template ensures isolation of the nanoparticles exclusively within the channels after template removal by heat treatment. Further understanding of the interaction of the composite template system and cerium precursor is gained by cyclic voltammetric studies.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► In situ synthesis of ultra small CeO2 nanoparticles in mesoporous compounds. ► Clusters of size <2 nm isolated exclusively in the channels of mesoporous silica. ► Cerium precursor interacts with composite template of polymer and surfactant.