Cellulose-based photo-enhanced persistent room-temperature phosphorescent materials by space stacking effects

•Cellulose-based materials with photo-enhanced pRTP properties is presented.•In-depth mechanism research with photo-enhanced pRTP properties of cellulose-based materials.•The excellent pRTP and mechanical properties in hot-pressed films are achieved.•Cellulose-based hot-pressed films are successfully employed for information encryption and flexible folding.