Cellulose and Nanofibers-Based Soft Gels: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications
A special issue of Gels (ISSN 2310-2861). This special issue belongs to the section "Gel Chemistry and Physics".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 March 2026 | Viewed by 8
Special Issue Editor
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Soft gels derived from cellulose and nanofibers have gained significant attention due to their biodegradability, tunable mechanical properties, and versatile applications. These gels are typically synthesized through physical or chemical crosslinking of cellulose derivatives (e.g., cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), or bacterial cellulose (BC)), often combined with polymers or nanomaterials to enhance functionality. Key synthesis methods include solvent casting, freeze-drying, and 3D printing, enabling control over porosity and microstructure.
The unique properties of cellulose-based soft gels, such as high water retention, biocompatibility, and stimuli-responsiveness (e.g., pH or temperature sensitivity), make them ideal for biomedical applications (e.g., wound dressings, drug delivery, and tissue engineering). Additionally, their mechanical adaptability and sustainability drive their use in flexible electronics, sensors, and soft robotics. Challenges remain in scaling production and improving mechanical strength. This Special Issue Cellulose and Nanofibers-Based Soft Gels: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications focuses on functionalization and hybrid systems to expand their potential.
Overall, cellulose and nanofiber-based soft gels represent a promising eco-friendly material platform for advanced technologies. We are thrilled to invite you, as a renowned expert in the field, to hopefully contribute to this special issue and the development of scientific study.
Prof. Dr. Min Zhang
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- soft gels
- cellulose and nanofibers
- physical or chemical crosslinking
- high water retention
- biocompatibility
- stimuli-responsiveness
- biomedical applications
- mechanical adaptability
- sustainability drive
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