Nanocellulose-based aerogels with devisable structure and tunable properties via ice-template induced self-assembly

Nanocellulose-based aerogels are widely used in various fields due to the lightweight and porous features. The pore structure plays a decisive role in the performances, but controllable fabrication of the nanocellulose-based aerogel with a tunable structure is still a challenge. Herein, we reported a facile approach to prepare nanocellulose aerogel with a designable pore structure by ice-induced self-assembly. The relationship between the properties and structure was investigated by simply tuning factors such as temperature gradient, freezing rate, infiltration interface, and solute concentration. The as-prepared aerogel exhibited regulable density (2.35–15.96 mg/cm3), pore size (2 nm-500 µm), and desirable flexibility which is suitable for thermal insulation application. The research provides new insight into the controllable preparation and functional application of nanocellulose-based aerogels.