H2 assisted decomposition of cerium nitrate to ceria with enhanced catalytic properties

CeO2 samples were prepared by Ce(NO3)(3)center dot 6H(2)O decomposition under synthetic air or 5%H-2/N-2 at 500 degrees C. The samples were characterized by XRD. N-2 adsorption at -196 degrees C, Temperature Programmed Reduction with H-2 (H-2-TPR) and DRIFTS. The catalytic activity for CO oxidation was also tested. The main conclusion is that H-2 accelerates the decomposition of cerium nitrate to CeO2 with regard to air decomposition, allowing preparation of ceria with enhanced catalytic behavior. The gas atmosphere used in the decomposition of the nitrates has no effect in the crystal size and surface area of the ceria samples obtained. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.