Cellulose Gels: Preparation, Properties and Applications

Dear Colleagues,

Presently, the development of conductive gels for electronic and ionotronic devices is sparking a technological revolution in flexible electronics. Cellulose, a renewable, biodegradable, high-mechanical-performance, and biocompatible biomass material, is emerging as an ideal substrate for constructing conductive gels and sustainable, eco-friendly, and safe flexible electronic devices. However, current research has predominantly focused on the biomedical applications of cellulose gels, including drug delivery, wound healing, 3D cell culture, tissue replacement, and tissue engineering, while its potential in flexible electronics—such as sensors, capacitors, diodes, transistors, and neuromorphic devices—has largely been overlooked. The migration dynamics of electrons and ions within cellulose-based composite gels are fundamental to the design of functional electronic devices. Furthermore, the rich surface chemistry and modifiable properties of cellulose offer numerous opportunities to precisely control carrier transport dynamics. Cellulose’s three-dimensional structure, abundant hydroxyl groups, and compatibility with various conductive materials provide a broad platform for the development of novel, low-power, high-performance flexible electronic devices. Recent studies suggest that cellulose composite gels hold significant promise for applications in sensors, smart capacitors, flexible memory devices, and neuromorphic systems, offering not only superior performance but also lower environmental impact, thus paving the way for the next generation of green electronics. We invite researchers to refocus on the exploration and application of cellulose gels in flexible electronics, helping to drive this emerging field forward. We encourage both academic and industrial researchers to submit innovative studies on the preparation, performance enhancement, and applications of cellulose-based conductive gels, particularly in flexible electronic devices. Through this Special Issue, we aim to showcase the unique advantages of cellulose gels in high-performance electronic devices and contribute to the advancement of flexible electronics technology.

Dr. Andrea Zille
Dr. Li Wang
Guest Editors

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