In this investigation, the Ce4+ doped ZnO nanoparticles (Zn/x%Ce) have been successfully synthesized via simple ultrasonic assisted hydrothermal. The X–ray diffraction diagram showed that Ce4+ions has replaced Zn2+ ions in the hexagonal structure of ZnO, forming nanoparticles. The hexagonal wurtzite lattice of ZnO is not changed and the strain increased with the concentration of doped Ce4+. The FE–SEM and the TEM images showed that Zn/x%Cenanoparticles had spherical aggregates with an average particle size of less than 35 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has demonstrated the Zn–O characteristic vibration group and the material surface vibration groups. The BET parameters of the Zn/5%Ce material show that the N2 adsorption/desorption isotherm is typical type III, with average capillary size and micropores. The high purity and density distribution of elements Zn, O, Ce in the samples host, confirmed through X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy for elemental and mapping. Nanoparticles Zn/x%Ce will be applicability to effectively removal for pollutants in environmental water.