Mechanically robust high flux graphene oxide - nanocellulose membranes for dye removal from water.

•Nanocellulose based membrane with ultrathin graphene oxide top layer was developed.•Ultrahigh flux (18,123 Lm−2h−1 bar−1) attributable to water transport nanochannels.•Membranes had excellent dry and wet mechanical properties.•Efficient retention of dyes (92%–99%) via adsorption and size exclusion.•The layered structure impacts membrane functionality.