The results of experiments on ceria (cerium oxide) nanoparticles, which may lead to a reduction in emissions, are being presented this week in the US.

The research, carried out at the US department of energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory, could lead to catalytic converters that are better at cleaning up auto exhaust as well as more efficient ways of generating hydrogen

Brookhaven chemist Jose Rodriguez will present results from two studies exploring the composition, structure, and reactivity of versatile nanoparticles to the American Chemical Society in San Diego.

"The ceria nanoparticles we studied have much better performance, higher chemical reactivity, than the bulk form of ceria currently used in catalytic converters," Mr Rodriguez explained.

The research therefore holds promise for more-efficient catalytic converters leading to cleaner air, he said.

A separate study looked at the "water-gas shift" phase of the ceria nanoparticles to determine how best to optimise the catalyst.

The phase is important for generating hydrogen, which can be used for chemical transformations and as a fuel in a hydrogen-based economy.

"In both cases, we are learning about the fundamental conditions necessary for optimal operation of the catalysts," Rodriguez said.

"This kind of knowledge eventually will lead to a rational design of even more effective catalysts."