Microstructural transitions in camphene-based freeze casted ceria: effect of primary building blocks

Porous ceria for high temperature catalytic applications demands structural integrity concomitant with sinter resistance and improved gas permeability. The current state of the art hinges on complex synthesis methodologies which are not only expensive but also lack flexibility in pore tailorability. Hence, the development of porous scaffolds through low-cost processes without compromising on the functionality is in order. Herein, we demonstrate porous ceria with an open porosity of 88% developed through camphene assisted freeze casting for the first time. Microstructural evolution with different building blocks – micrometre-sized particles and short fibres were also studied. Preliminary catalytic activity obtained via temperature programmed reduction exemplified similar profiles showing no effect of the initial building blocks on the activity.