A novel ZnO-based composite material is fabricated by oxidation of Zn alloy melts, in which outward growth of the reaction products and rapid reaction kinetics are observed. Additions of Na and Bi to the Zn melts are found to be essential to increase the matrix growth rate to a practical level. Optimum reaction rates are observed for Zn-3Na-5Bi alloys oxidized at temperatures between 450 and 550 degrees C in pure oxygen. Processing parameters, such as alloy composition and oxygen activity, also have a profound impact on the resulting microstructure and reaction kinetics. The evidences supported that the continuous outward growth of the matrix is achieved via modification of the ZnO defect structure and partial wetting of the growing oxide by the melts.