Paper made from micro/nano-cellulose is emerging as a sustainable optical material for advanced photonic applications such as solar cells and displays due to its perfect combination of unique optical properties (e.g., tunable light transmittance, tailored optical haze, iridescent appearance) and environmental friendliness. In this report, we focus on the light scattering and light transmittance of cellulose paper and corresponding light management mechanisms. We begin with the introduction of design principles and theories for the light management of cellulose paper in terms of the nature of light, structural hierarchy of cellulose, optical properties of multiscale cellulose, and structure of cellulose paper. Furthermore, strategies to manipulate their light transmission and transmission haze (light scattering) is highlighted. Finally, their potential applications in optoelectronics as photonic materials are presented.

Light management of cellulose paper