Preparation of CeO2 hollow spheres via a surfactant-assisted solvothermal route

In this study, CeO₂ hollow spheres were synthesized via a facile surfactant-assisted solvothermal route. The synthesized products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction, and N₂ adsorption–desorption. Different solvent species has been demonstrated as the key factor responsible for the controlled morphologies. Furthermore, both the water and the oleic acid were crucial to the formation of CeO₂ hollow spheres. The possible formation mechanism of CeO₂ hollow spheres has been preliminary discussed.