Abstract
Many properties provided by supramolecular chemistry, nanotechnology and catalysis only appear in solids exhibiting large surface areas and regular porosity at the nanometre scale. In nanometre-sized particles, the ratio of the number of atoms in the surface to the number in the bulk is much larger than for micrometre-sized materials, and this can lead to novel properties. Here we report the preparation of a hierarchically structured mesoporous material from nanoparticles of CeO(2) of strictly uniform size. The synthesis involves self-assembly of these 5-nm CeO(2) pre-treated nanoparticles in the presence of a structure directing agent (poly(alkylene oxide) block polymer). The walls of this hexagonal structured CeO(2) material are formed from the primary nanoparticles. The material possesses large pore volumes, high surface areas, and marked thermal stability, allowing it to be easily doped after synthesis whilst maintaining textural and mechanical integrity. It also exhibits a photovoltaic response, which is directly derived from the nanometric particle size-normal CeO(2) does not show this response. We have constructed operational organic-dye-free solar cells using nanometric ceria particles (in both mesostructured or amorphous forms) as the active component, and find efficiencies that depend on the illuminating power.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
