A bubble-templating strategy to construct CeO2 aerogels and their potential application for fast detection of acetone

Abstract

Simultaneously combining the advantages of aerogel structure and CeO₂ materials presents a compelling avenue for design of novel functional materials for diverse applications. However, the development of a facile approach to synthesize CeO₂ aerogels with high crystallinity and excellent porous structures is still a challenge. Herein, a facile bubble-templating strategy is proposed to prepare CeO₂ aerogel through simple heat treatment of a mixture containing ammonium cerium(IV) nitrate (ACN) and glucose, in which the sugar-blowing property of glucose and the gases generated by decomposition of ACN and glucose contribute to form a CeO₂ aerogel with unique porous structure and high crystallinity. Furthermore, after in situ introduction of metal ions (Cu²⁺, Mn²⁺, Co²⁺) into the precursors, metal-doped CeO₂ aerogels have been also prepared. Most importantly, the Co²⁺-doped CeO₂ (Co–CeO₂) aerogel exhibits fast response property toward detection of acetone, indicating potential application for acetone detection. This study not only provides a universal aerogel material design paradigm, but also proposes a new strategy for the development of high-performance sensing materials.