This paper studies the energetic and topographical changes that occur on the surface of a series of clays pillared with the mixed Al-Fe-Ce system and on the surface of solids synthesized by the deposition of gold nanoparticles over these pillared clays. The energetic heterogeneity of the solids was analyzed by means of the distribution of the adsorption potential, while the variations in the fractal dimension were determined from the nitrogen adsorption isotherms at 77 K, using the equation proposed by Avnir-Jaroniec. Results show the generation of microporous structures with important topographical modi. cations indicating an increase in the roughness ( fractal geometry) of the surface of the solids as a consequence of the pillaring, revealing a positive effect of cerium addition in the synthesis process and the possible formation of nanoparticles of iron species and gold on the surface of pillared clays. The solids were also analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), confirming the formation of nanoparticles on the surface. (C) 2008 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.