Dissolution of Cellulose in Ionic Liquids and Its Application for Cellulose Processing and Modification

Cellulose is the most abundant renewable bioresource in the world and the most promising feedstock for industry in the future. Ionic liquids as novel and designable solvents have attracted much attention. In this review, the progress of the dissolution of cellulose in ionic liquids is illustrated. As suitable and environmentally friendly media, Ionic liquids also provide a new platform for cellulose processing and modification. The preparation of composite materials, cellulosic derivatives, and biofuels from cellulose in ionic liquids is summarized.