ZnO based advanced functional nanostructures: synthesis, properties and applications

ZnO nanostructures, due to their novel properties, are promising components in a wide range of nanoscale devices for future applications. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current research activities that focus on the synthesis, characterization and applications of ZnO based nanostructures. We briefly describe the most commonly applied methodologies for the synthesis of ZnO nanostructures. A range of remarkable characteristics is then presented, organized into sections describing the optical, electrical and mechanical properties. Finally, we include a brief analysis of the possible future trends for the application of this interesting semiconductor oxide for hydrogen storage and biosensors. These studies constitute the basis for developing versatile applications of ZnO nanostructures.