Template-free synthesis of ZnV2O4 hollow spheres and their application for organic dye removal

► Hollow ZnV2O4 spheres were fabricated by a facile one-step template-free solvothermal treatment. ► A flowerlike intermediate product supported reduction-dissolution-aggregation process is proposed to describe the formation of ZnV2O4 hollow spheres. ► ZnV2O4 hollow spheres were used as adsorbent for effective removal of organic dyes in simulated wastewater.