Recent Progress on Nanocellulose Aerogels: Preparation, Modification, Composite Fabrication, Applications

TLDR: Nanocellulose-based aerogels, using abundant and sustainable cellulose as raw material, present a third-generation of aerogel that combine traditional aeroglobels with high porosity and large specific surface area, as well as the excellent properties of cellulose itself as discussed by the authors.

Abstract: The rapid development of modern industry and excessive consumption of petroleum-based polymers have triggered a double crisis presenting a shortage of nonrenewable resources and environmental pollution However, this has provided an opportunity to stimulate researchers to harness native biobased materials for novel advanced materials and applications Nanocellulose-based aerogels, using abundant and sustainable cellulose as raw material, present a third-generation of aerogels that combine traditional aerogels with high porosity and large specific surface area, as well as the excellent properties of cellulose itself Currently, nanocellulose aerogels provide a highly attention-catching platform for a wide range of functional applications in various fields, eg, adsorption, separation, energy storage, thermal insulation, electromagnetic interference shielding, and biomedical applications Here, the preparation methods, modification strategies, composite fabrications, and further applications of nanocellulose aerogels are summarized, with additional discussions regarding the prospects and potential challenges in future development