Zinc oxide with a diversity of well-defined morphologies was synthesized via a simple aqueous solution route by decomposing ZnxOy(OH)(z) precursor at suitable reaction conditions. Flower-like ZnO composed of rods was obtained by treating ZnxOy(OH)(z) precursor in the reaction solution at 90 degrees C for 6 h. The precipitate of layer-like ZnxOy(OH)(z) precursor was decomposed by drying at 90 degrees C for 24 h in air, resulting in the formation of ZnO microtubes. (C) 2008 The Society of Powder Technology Japan. Published by Elsevier BV and The Society of Powder Technology Japan. All rights reserved.