Multifunctional nanocellulose-based electromagnetic interference shielding composites: Design, functionality, and future prospects

Electromagnetic wave radiation, as the fourth most common form of pollution, not only adversely impacts human health but also poses various challenges in our daily lives. Significant scientific efforts have been made to address this, particularly in developing sustainable biomass-based electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials with high flexibility and functional integrity. Most recently, nanocellulose has emerged as a highly promising material in designing flexible, lightweight, and multifunctional EMI shielding composites. Its potential lies in the innovative integration with various conductive or magnetic elements, charting new pathways in this research area. Starting with the structural design of nanocellulose-based EMI shielding materials, this review provides a thorough and in-depth assessment of developments in this research field over the past three years. In particular, the fabrication of nanocellulose-based EMI shielding materials is systematically described, and the effects of different compositions and structural variations on EMI shielding performance are touched upon. In addition, a summary of the multifunctional design approaches for nanocellulose-based EMI shielding materials is provided. Finally, the challenges and potential opportunities for the future development of nanocellulose-based EMI shielding materials are discussed. [Display omitted] •The development of nanocellulose-based EMI shielding materials was assessed.•The fabrication of nanocellulose-based EMI shielding materials was elaborated.•Current challenges and future perspectives on this research topic were discussed.