What are materials that are both strong and lightweight, derived from plant sources called?

Materials that are both strong and lightweight, derived from plant sources, are referred to as nanocellulose. This substance is composed of cellulose, a biopolymer that provides structural support in plants. When cellulose is broken down into nanoscale dimensions, it exhibits remarkable mechanical properties, including high strength-to-weight ratios. Nanocellulose is not only light but also exhibits excellent tensile strength, making it an attractive material for various applications, from packaging and biomedical devices to composites and conductive materials. Its natural origin also provides the potential for biodegradability, aligning with sustainable material development.

The other options, while relevant in the broader context of materials science and nanotechnology, do not specifically describe materials that are both strong and lightweight from plant sources. Nanoparticles refer to particles of nanoscale dimensions but do not imply specific properties related to strength or being derived from plants. Optical materials relate to how materials interact with light, and nanocomposites are hybrid materials that combine nanoparticles with other matrix materials, which may not specifically be plant-derived or focused on lightweight properties.