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Abstract

Using a simple slow decomposition method of nitrate precursors, high-surface area platinum-doped ceria with a crystallite size of 9 nm can be prepared. The catalytic performance of the compound can be tuned by changing the reduction temperature under hydrogen (300 °C, 500 °C and 700 °C). The catalyst treated at 300 °C shows the best catalytic performance, being active at room temperature. The materials were analysed using a combination of structural characterization methods (X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen physisorption, high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM)), surface sensitive methods (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), H₂-chemisorption and H₂-temperature-programmed reduction (TPR)) and X-ray absorption fluorescence spectroscopy (XAFS). HAADF-STEM and XAFS analysis suggests successful doping of platinum in the ceria lattice. After pretreatment at 300 °C, the situation is slightly different. While no defined platinum nanoparticles can be identified on the surface, some platinum is in a reduced state (XPS, H₂-chemisorption).