Bacterial cellulose-based functional yarns: from design to applications

Bio-polymer bacterial cellulose, with its renewable and carbon neutral nature, superior biocompatibility, tailorable surface chemistry, high purity and mechanical properties, has attracted wide attention from basic science to technical applications. In this review, benefiting from its unique physicochemical properties, superior weaving ability, easy processing and molding, an up-to-date account of the recent advancements in bacterial cellulose-derived functional yarns and their emerging applications in reinforcement materials, flexible wearables, energy storage and conversion, as well as antibacterial and discolored textiles is provided for the first time. Firstly, this work systematically summarizes the basic characteristics, formation strategies and preparation processes of bacterial cellulose and derived bio-based yarns. Moreover, the review focuses on the latest progress of bacterial cellulose-based functional yarns and their potential emerging applications. Furthermore, scalable and low-cost bio-bacterial cellulose synthesis strategies for industrial applications are discussed. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of bacterial cellulose-based functional yarns and textiles in practical applications and emerging directions are briefly discussed. This review is expected to provide a new paradigm for sustainably developing non-petroleum bacterial cellulose functional materials and their emerging applications in energy devices, biomedical technology and smart textiles, and promote the technological innovation and the development of materials science in related fields.