Cellulose nanofiber composite substrates for flexible electronics

• Structured nanocellulose hydrogels, aerogels and thin films were prepared using different techniques and by controlling NFC interactions. • Facile functionalization of structured materials of nanofibrillated cellulose with silver nanoparticles were demonstrated. • The NFC-Ag gel was initiated by strong association of carboxylate groups on NEC with Ag and sufficient NFC surface charge reduction, and stabilized by interfacial hydrogen bonding interactions among nanofibrils. • NFC-Ag aerogels were prepared using two approaches, and structure changes were investigated. • Smooth NFC-Ag thin films were prepared with good optical qualities, and surface nanofribrils showed less coalescence than NEC film. • Structured nanocellulose materials as templates for composites were tested. • Cellulose addition improved above-glass transition storage modulus in EP0N862/EpicureW resin system • freeze-dried NFC aerogel agglomerations hinder optical properties, and create stress concentrations that weaken and impact properties • NEC wet gel process decreased glass transition • presence of acetone plasticizer, NEC wet gel had better impact resistance than aerogel.