beta-Nickel hydroxide microspheres with flakelike nanostructure have been successfully synthesized by a low temperature hydrothermal method at 100 degrees C for 2 h. The sphere size was about 0.6-1.0 mu m. The hierarchical structure was nanoflake and thickness of each nanoflake was about 15 nm. The formation mechanism of beta-nickel hydroxide microsphere with flakelike nanostructures was discussed. Their electrochemical properties were also described. The discharge specific capacity is 260 mAh g(-1). Because of their unique structures and excellent electrochemistrical properties, the flakelike nanostructures of nickel hydroxide spheres may give a new perspective for applications in the rechargeable batteries. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.