This study demonstrated a facile method for the synthesis of CeO2 nanoplates and nanorods via the thermal decomposition Of a mixture of cerium acetate, oleic acid, oleyamine and 1-octadecene under controlled atmospheres. Morphologies of the produced cerium oxides were controlled by the adding procedures of activators. Activators added at room temperature and heated with the reaction Mixture result in the formation of nanoplates. Injection of activators at high temperature leads to the formation of nanorods. Both the nanoplates and nanorods are achieved via the [100] oriented assembly of smaller particles. A blue-shifting of the UV absorption threshold edge are observed for the cerium oxide nanoplates and nanorods, contrasting with the bulk commercial powders. (C) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved