Cellulose Nanocrystals for Biomimetics, Energy, and Flexible Electronics Applications

Dear Colleagues,

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are nanoscale derivatives of cellulose, which is the most abundant natural polymer on Earth. Historically, cellulose has been utilized in paper, textiles, and construction, but the discovery of its nanostructured forms in the late 20th century unlocked revolutionary potential. CNCs, characterized by their high tensile strength (>100 GPa), large surface area (~150 m²/g), biocompatibility, and renewability, have emerged as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based materials. Early research focused on extraction methods, such as acid hydrolysis, to isolate crystalline regions from lignocellulosic biomass (e.g., agricultural residues and wood).

The shift toward biomimetics and advanced applications began with the realization that CNCs’ hierarchical structure and liquid crystalline behavior mimic those of natural systems, such as plant cell walls and spider silk. Over the past decade, advancements in surface modification (e.g., TEMPO oxidation and carboxymethylation) and hybrid material design (e.g., integration with metals or polymers) have expanded their utility in energy storage, flexible electronics, and bioinspired systems.

This Special Issue aims to consolidate interdisciplinary research on CNCs, emphasizing their role in addressing global challenges through biomimetic design, sustainable energy solutions, and next-generation electronics. Key themes include the following:

- “Fundamental Insights”: Structural dynamics, hydrogen bonding networks, and surface interactions.

- “Synthesis Innovations”: Green extraction methods, scalable production, and functionalization techniques.

- “Applications”: Bioinspired materials, energy harvesting/storage devices, and flexible sensors/electronics.

- “Sustainability”: Lifecycle analysis and eco-friendly integration into circular economies.

The scope spans experimental, computational, and applied studies, bridging gaps between nanotechnology, materials science, and engineering.

Recent breakthroughs highlight CNCs’ versatility:

- “Biomimetics”:

  - “Self-Assembly”: CNC–gold nanorod hybrids form plasmonic metasurfaces for photothermal anti-icing, mimicking natural light-responsive systems.

  - “Structural Optimization”: Theoretical studies reveal how exposed crystal facets (e.g., {A, B, O}) and hydrogen bond networks dictate stability and functionality.

- “Energy Applications”:

  - “Batteries and Supercapacitors”: CNC-based aerogels enhance electrode conductivity and mechanical flexibility. 

  - “Solar Cells”: Transparent CNC films with tuneable refractive indices improve light management in photovoltaic devices.

- “Flexible Electronics”: 

  - “Wearable Sensors”: CNC–polymer composites enable stretchable, biodegradable sensors for health monitoring. 

  - “3D Printing”: CNC inks with aligned nanostructures facilitate the high-resolution printing of conductive circuits. 

We invite contributions across the following categories: 

1. Synthesis and Functionalization:

   - Novel pretreatment methods (e.g., deep eutectic solvents, enzymatic hydrolysis). 

   - Surface modification for enhanced hydrophobicity or conductivity. 

2. Theoretical and Computational Studies:

   - Molecular dynamics simulations of CNC interactions and stability. 

   - DFT analyses of electronic properties in hybrid systems. 

3. Biomimetic and Energy Systems:

   - Bioinspired materials for anti-icing, adhesion, or structural reinforcement. 

   - CNC-based composites for batteries, supercapacitors, or catalysis. 

4. Flexible Electronics:

   - CNC-integrated wearable devices, transparent conductors, or memory devices. 

   - Degradation studies and environmental impact assessments. 

5. Reviews and Perspectives:

   - Critical analyses of scalability challenges or emerging trends in CNC applications. 

This Special Issue seeks to advance the frontier of CNC research by uniting multidisciplinary expertise. By addressing synthesis, theory, and application, we aim to catalyze innovations that align with global sustainability goals while unlocking the full potential of cellulose nanocrystals in biomimetics, energy, and flexible electronics. Submissions emphasizing scalability, environmental impact, and cross-disciplinary integration are particularly encouraged.

Dr. Lu Zong
Guest Editor

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• cellulose nanocrystals
• biomimetics
• energy
• flexible electronics