In this work, self-assembled hierarchical Ce(SO4)(2) microdisks were firstly synthesized via a solvolthermal method without employing templates or matrices. After calcining the Ce(SO4)(2) microdisks at 1100 degrees C for 4h. ceria microdisks were obtained. The products were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). scanning electronic microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectra (EDS), thermogravimetric analysis (TG). and differential thermal analysis (DTA) SEM results indicate that the Ce(SO4)(2) microdisks are in the diameter of about 11.3 mu m and are constructed by pentagonal nanosheets with thickness of about 30 nm. The ceria microdisks are with an average diameter and thickness of about 9.1 mu m and 320 nm, respectively Furthermore. the ceria microdisks are constructed by numerous primary particles and there are many micropores in the microdisks. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V All rights reserved.