The ZnO/SnO2 composites are synthesized by a simple hydrotherrnal route and proposed as a novel anodic material for Zn/Ni secondary cells. The structures and morphologies of the samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The composite materials are composed of homogeneous grain-like nanoparticles, and a prismatic microstructure is formed between ZnO and SnO2. The electrochemical performances of composite material electrodes are comparatively analyzed through cyclic voltammetry, tafel plot and galvanostatic charge-discharge tests. The tests results show that the ZnO/SnO2 composite exhibit the best electrochemical performances as anode material for Zn/Ni secondary batteries. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.