Advances in cellulose-metal organic framework composites: preparation and applications

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous crystalline materials that find diverse applications due to their high porosity, fine structures, and controllable topology. However, the powdered state of the as-prepared MOFs hinders their application. Shaping of MOFs or construction of MOF composites with excellent flexibility, good pore accessibility and mechanical stability is regarded as an important step for the practical use of MOFs. Biocompatible and renewable cellulose is an excellent substrate/matrix for compositing MOFs. This review emphasizes the recent advances in synthesis strategies, versatile structures and broad applications of cellulose-MOF composites. A summary of the fabrication of cellulose-MOF composites is provided first. Then, the wide applications of cellulose-MOF composites are highlighted and their structure-property-function correlations are discussed. Finally, the existing challenges and potential opportunities for future research are proposed. This review emphasizes the recent advances in synthesis strategies, versatile structures and broad applications of cellulose-metal organic framework composites.