Review of the recent developments in all-cellulose nanocomposites: Properties and applications

Cellulose, the most abundant polysaccharide on Earth, has a number of desirable properties, including availability, biodegradability, low cost, and low toxicity and has been used in a variety of applications. Recently, all-cellulose composite materials have been made from a wide variety of cellulose sources, including wood and agricultural wastes, via impregnation or partial surface dissolution approaches utilizing a specific solvent. Due to the improved interfacial interactions between the cellulose matrix and cellulose reinforcement, all-cellulose composites exhibit superior mechanical properties when compared to biopolymers and petroleum-based polymers. The current article discusses the factors affecting the mechanical properties and interfacial bonding of all-cellulose composites. Additionally, the incorporation of inorganic nanoparticles is described to enhance the multi-functional properties of all-cellulose composites, such as their conductivity, permeability, and adsorption. Furthermore, this review summarizes the potential applications of all-cellulose composites in the following areas: composites, packaging, aerogels, hydrogels, fibers, tissue engineering, membranes, textiles, and coatings. [Display omitted] •All-cellulose composites are prepared from cellulose sources via the impregnation or partial surface dissolution approach•Biodegradable and recyclable all-cellulose composites could be a candidate to replace petroleum-based and biodegradable polymers.•All-cellulose composites exhibit stronger mechanical performances and promising oxygen permeability.•All-cellulose composites can be used in applications such as packaging, aerogels, textiles, and electronic devices.•All-cellulose composites containing inorganic nanomaterials could exhibit specific functionalities.