Dynamic covalent network-functionalized holocellulose composite: A photocurable strategy toward transparent and...

The development of sustainable and high-performance alternatives to synthetic materials has become a key strategy for advancing the circular bioeconomy and maximizing the value of biomass resources. Transparent wood has emerged as a promising bio-based functional material, but its practical application remains constrained by limited functionality, energy-intensive fabrication processes, and poor recyclability. Herein, a photocurable functional holocellulose composite (FHC) was developed through the synergistic integration of a holocellulose scaffold, UV-curing technology, and a dynamic covalent network, with polymer rapidly polymerizing within the aligned microchannels of holocellulose scaffold, forming a robust interpenetrating structure combining optical management with mechanical reinforcement. The resulting FHC exhibited high haze (98.47%), relatively low thermal conductivity (0.23 W·m^-1·K^-1), outstanding thermal stability, and high mechanical strength (longitudinal fracture strength 28.25 MPa). Furthermore, the incorporation of β-hydroxy ester-based dynamic covalent bonds introduced thermal re-processability through transesterification at elevated temperature, enabling damaged FHC to be ground and hot-pressed into regenerated films with comparable even enhanced fracture strength (30.21 MPa). This work establishes a facile and cross strategy that combines transparent wood architecture, rapid UV-curing, and dynamic covalent chemistry, providing a scalable route toward recyclable, multifunctional, and high-value cellulose-based composites for energy-efficient buildings, privacy applications and light diffusers, and adaptive material systems.