Assembling nanocelluloses into fibrous materials and their emerging applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Nanocelluloses are renewable nano building blocks derived from plants or bacteria.
• Assembled nanocellulose fibers mimic natural structures, enabling diverse functionalities.
• These materials show promise for applications in electrical devices, fire retardance, sensing, and medical uses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review nanocellulose properties and the historical development of assembling processes.
• To focus on traditional and advanced techniques for fabricating nanocellulose fibrous materials.
• To discuss design rules and influencing factors for structure-function relationships.

Main Methods:

• Overview of nanocellulose properties.
• Detailed examination of assembling techniques: wet spinning, dry spinning, electrostatic spinning, self-assembly, microfluidics, and 3D printing.
• Analysis of design rules and factors influencing material structure and function.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive overview of nanocellulose properties and their assembly into fibrous materials.
• Detailed discussion of various traditional and advanced fabrication techniques.
• Highlighting emerging applications and the structure-property relationships of nanocellulose-based fibrous materials.

Conclusions:

• Nanocellulose fibrous materials offer significant potential across various technological fields.
• Advanced assembly techniques are crucial for tailoring material properties and functions.
• Future research should address key opportunities and challenges for broader application.