Cellulose‐based hydrogels regulated by supramolecular chemistry

Abstract

Supramolecular hydrogels based on cellulose attract increasing attention because of their novel structures and broad potential applications. In this review, hydrogels composed of cellulose are summarized according to category of supramolecular interactions in the networks including hydrogen bonds, electrostatic interactions, host‐guest interactions, and others. Supramolecular cellulose‐based hydrogels constructed by noncovalent bonding usually exhibit environmental friendliness, designing flexibility and diverse functions, and their properties are variable with incorporating different interactions in hydrogel networks. Moreover, with proper structures and networks, the supramolecular cellulose‐based hydrogels are adaptable in diverse fields of research and practical applications, such as self‐healing, shape memory, drug delivery, and some other renewable/sustainable materials. The future developments and challenges of the supramolecular hydrogels based on cellulose are discussed as well.