Processing and structural evolution of nanocrystalline CuCeO2−x catalysts

Inert gas condensation synthesis and post-treatment of nanocrystalline Cu-CeO2−x were found to provide unique control of the structural evolution of this system. X-ray diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy were employed to follow the phase transformation, morphological changes, and chemical dispersion in this material. A strong interaction existed between the components to provide a high dispersion of Cu on CeO2−x that was stable through high temperature treatments. The interstitial and surface dispersion of Cu were related to the systemʹs excellent catalytic performance in CO oxidation.