Cellulose and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs): synergistic strategies for developing high-performance cellulose/MOFs composites

Cellulose/Metal–organic framework (Cellulose/MOFs) composites are a class of multifunctional, sustainable materials that have recently developed in the past decade. They are either synthesized in-situ with cellulose and MOF precursors or integrated ex-situ with cellulose as a template on preformed MOFs. They exhibit ease in chemical modification, biodegradability, mechanical stability and are economically viable. MOFs are broadly utilized in different areas owing to abundant porosity, tunability, high surface area and multiple topological structures. However, their crystalline nature limits flexibility and recyclability. This can be overcome by integrating cellulose and MOFs to form composites. Cellulose/MOF composites provide exceptionally high surface area, tunable porosity, high mechanical stability and free available sites which can be customized as per requirements. These features can be further regulated by optimizing the synthesis techniques, adding functional groups and varying the composition of cellulose and MOFs. This review focuses on recent advances in the design strategies of cellulose/MOF composites and their utility in various multifunctional applications in diverse fields and so on. This review covers all aspects of cellulose-based MOFs like cellulose derivatives, synthesis, details of MOFs used till now, literature reviews and patents, fabrication techniques, forms, properties and applications in various fields like water remediation, gas adsorption, energy storage, biomedical applications and other upcoming applications along with future prospects. This review is expected to serve as a benchmark for any researcher searching for information about cellulose-based MOFs.

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