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Bacterial cellulose composites: Synthetic strategies and multiple applications in bio‐medical and electro‐conductive fields
Author(s) -
UlIslam Mazhar,
Khan Shaukat,
Ullah Muhammad Wajid,
Park Joong Kon
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
biotechnology journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.144
H-Index - 84
eISSN - 1860-7314
pISSN - 1860-6768
DOI - 10.1002/biot.201500106
Subject(s) - bacterial cellulose , materials science , biocompatible material , crystallinity , biomaterial , composite material , porosity , cellulose , nanotechnology , structural material , electrically conductive , conductive polymer , polymer , nanoparticle , biomedical engineering , chemical engineering , medicine , engineering
Bacterial cellulose (BC), owing to its pure nature and impressive physicochemical properties, including high mechanical strength, crystallinity, porous fibrous structure, and liquid absorbing capabilities, has emerged as an advanced biomaterial. To match the market demand and economic values, BC has been produced through a number of synthetic routes, leading to slightly different structural features and physical appearance. Chemical nature, porous geometry, and 3D fibrous structure of BC make it an ideal material for composites synthesis that successfully overcome certain deficiencies of pure BC. In this review, we have focused various strategies developed for synthesizing BC and BC composites. Reinforcement materials including nanoparticles and polymers have enhanced the antimicrobial, conducting, magnetic, biocompatible, and mechanical properties of BC. Both pure BC and its composites have shown impressive applications in medical fields and in the development of optoelectronic devices. Herein, we have given a special attention to discuss its applications in the medical and electronic fields. In conclusion, BC and BC composites have realistic potential to be used in future development of medical devices, artificial organs and electronic and conducting materials. The contents discussed herein will provide an eye‐catching theme to the researchers concerned with practical applications of BC and BC composites.