Zn-doped alpha-nickel hydroxide materials with flower-like nanostructures are synthesized by electrochemical deposition method. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electrochemical measurements. XRD spectra indicate nickel hydroxide doped with Zn is alpha-Ni(OH)(2) with excellent crystallization. The SEM observation shows that the formation of Zn-doped Ni(OH)(2) includes two steps: a honeycomb-like film forms on the substrate first, then flower-like particles forms on the films. The nickel hydroxide doped with 5% Zn can maintain a maximum specific capacitance of 860 F g(-1), suggesting its potential application in electrochemical capacitors. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.