Nanocellulose functional materials for advanced adsorption and removal of emerging Contaminants: Green strategies and analytical perspectives

The proliferation of emerging contaminants (ECs) from intensified industrial and social activities poses significant threats to global ecosystems and public health. In response to this worldwide challenge, cellulose-based functional materials are gaining traction. Their unique biocompatibility and tunable functionality position them as a crucial link between sustainable development and the circular economy. Strategically hybridizing cellulose with next-generation nanomaterials (carbon nanomaterials, MXene, metal organic frameworks, and covalent organic frameworks) is driving innovation toward sustainable, cost-effective, and low-carbon solutions for ECs detection, capture, and removal. This review systematically investigates cellulose composites for ECs management, covering cellulose synthesis, functionalization strategies, and mechanisms of ECs analysis and removal. Finally, we critically evaluate persistent challenges pertaining to limitation of materials, scalable manufacturing, and the balance between durability and controlled degradation, while proposing strategic research directions for future intelligent monitoring and remediation systems.