Next‐Generation Transparent Wood Composite: Progress in Cellulose‐Based Functional Materials

Transparent wood composite (TWC) is an emerging material with a wide range of promising applications in energy‐efficient systems. In recent years, research interest in TWC has grown significantly, with numerous studies focusing on its application‐oriented variants. These efforts often involve incorporating specific components to enhance desirable properties. Apart from optical properties, due considerations have been given to the specialized features of TWC, including flexibility, anisotropy, fire/flame retardancy, thickness, mechanical strength, photoluminescence, thermochromism, photochromism, IR and UV shielding, and energy storage and conservation capabilities. The process of modifying wood to prepare a mechanically stable cellulose framework is still under the process of refinement. A diverse range of polymers has been studied for infiltration to achieve targeted characteristics for the resultant TWC for specific applications. Functionalization of TWC has significantly widened its scope of utilization in the development of multifunctional bio‐based materials. As a biocompatible and sustainable material, TWC offers enormous potential for further development. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of recent advances and prospects in TWC research, with an emphasis on identifying key research gaps and opportunities for development in this rapidly evolving field.