In this paper, the growth behavior of low-dimensional nano ZnO on biomorphic porous carbon matrix (BPC matrix) by a hydrothermal synthesis method is studied. The Influence of the growth time, type of BPC matrix and its carbonization temperature on the growth behavior of nano ZnO are studied through XPS, XRD, TGA, SEM etc. The results show that hexagonal ZnO is obtained on a BPC matrix and the grain size is about 8 nm. Zero-dimensional nano-ZnO particles can grow on the inner walls of BPC matrix derived from hardwood, it is distributed evenly and combines well with the walls; while onedimensional nano rods or two-dimensional nano sheets can grow on that of bamboo and two-dimensional nano sheets can grow on that of pine. The morphology, size and amount of nano-ZnO crystals are mainly controlled by growth time and matrix carbonization temperature, respectively. The growth mechanism of nano-ZnO crystal on a BPC matrix is also discussed.

Keywords: Biomorphic porous carbon, Hydrothermal synthesis, Nano-crystal growth, XPS.