Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a multifunctional material with unique physical and chemical properties, such as high chemical stability, high electrochemical coupling coefficient, broad range of radiation absorption, and high photostability. This review covers the synthesis, modification, and applications of ZnO. The synthesis methods are categorized into metallurgical and chemical methods. Metallurgical processes involve roasting zinc ore, while chemical methods include mechanochemical processes, controlled precipitation, sol-gel method, solvothermal and hydrothermal methods, and methods using emulsion and microemulsion environments. The modification methods of ZnO involve coating with organic (carboxylic acid, silanes) and inorganic (metal oxides) compounds, as well as polymer matrices. ZnO has various applications in industries such as rubber, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, textiles, electronics, and photocatalysis. The review provides a comprehensive overview of ZnO's synthesis techniques, modification methods, and potential applications, offering valuable information for researchers and practitioners in the field.Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a multifunctional material with unique physical and chemical properties, such as high chemical stability, high electrochemical coupling coefficient, broad range of radiation absorption, and high photostability. This review covers the synthesis, modification, and applications of ZnO. The synthesis methods are categorized into metallurgical and chemical methods. Metallurgical processes involve roasting zinc ore, while chemical methods include mechanochemical processes, controlled precipitation, sol-gel method, solvothermal and hydrothermal methods, and methods using emulsion and microemulsion environments. The modification methods of ZnO involve coating with organic (carboxylic acid, silanes) and inorganic (metal oxides) compounds, as well as polymer matrices. ZnO has various applications in industries such as rubber, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, textiles, electronics, and photocatalysis. The review provides a comprehensive overview of ZnO's synthesis techniques, modification methods, and potential applications, offering valuable information for researchers and practitioners in the field.