One dimensional (1D) nano-structured arrays have attracted great interests in recent years. In this paper, Cu(OH)(2) and ZnO nanoarrays on corresponding metal substrates have been successfully prepared by a gas-solution-solid method. The nanoribbons arrays of Cu(OH)(2) were about 10 mu m in length on average and the widths vary from 0.6 to 3.2 mu m depending on different treatment conditions. Similarly, the diameters of ZnO nanorods could be controlled from 20 to 200 nm by adjusting ammonia concentrations. The growth mechanisms for Cu(OH)(2) and ZnO nanoarrays were studied and proposed. Briefly, Cu(OH)(2) and ZnO nanoarrays were grown from the tips with the help of ammonium in the solution as transporters of copper and zinc ions. Moreover, the NH3 sensing properties were measured and the results showed that both nanoarray sensors have high sensitivity and reversibility for NH3 probing at room temperature. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier B.V.