Synthesis and applications of bacterial cellulose composites

Bacterial cellulose (BC) has been attracting attention for its utilities in a variety of applications. Its nanofibrous nature offers a high surface area for the formulation of composites through physical, chemical, or biological methods. BC composites have been formed by combining with a wide range of molecules to impart additional functions. This chapter summarizes the additives and techniques to modify BC to form nanocomposites for applications in different industrial sectors. The chapter starts with an overview of BC's unique properties that are essential for composite design. The types of additives or reinforcement agents utilized to form composites are discussed, followed by techniques employed to formulate the composites. The last section showcases the applications of BC and BC composites in the areas of pharmaceuticals, food, diagnostics, cosmetics and as a general matrix.