Poly(zinc dimethacrylate) as a precursor in the low-temperature formation of ZnO nanoparticles

► A novel synthesis of pure ZnO nanoparticles and polymer-ZnO hybrid materials is reported. ► The conversion of poly(zinc dimethacrylate) in 1-butanol proceeds by the addition of the NaOH. ► The polymer was used as a precursor and template in the low temperature preparation of neat ZnO.