Nanocellulose-based films and their emerging applications

Extensive research has been directed towards the reinvention of paper for advanced applications. Nanocellulose-based films, a novel class of specialty paper primarily made of nanocellulose, demonstrate an ideal combination of sustainability and enhanced or novel properties. Enormous efforts have been devoted to enhancing these intrinsic properties and/or creating novel functions to expedite and expand the use of these materials in high-end fields such as touchscreen, solar cells, and nanogenerators. We review state-of-the-art advances in nanocellulose-based films and their utilization in several emerging and promising fields. We begin with an introduction of four types of nanocellulose-based films distinguished by their functional material loads (e.g., synthetic macromolecular polymers, 0D, 1D, and 2D nanomaterials), which involves their manufacturing techniques, structure design, properties, novel functions, and underlying principles. Additionally, we summarize the value-added applications of nanocellulose-based films in flexible electronics, energy converting or harvesting devices, and water treatment. Finally, we provide a critical viewpoint on the remaining challenges and future opportunities in this field.