The role of surface wettability on water transport through membranes

•Water flow through ultra-thin membranes is investigated by using non-equilibrium simulation.•The effects of interior/exterior surface wettability on water flux are examined.•Hydrophilic interior surface causes ordered and packed water structure reducing water flux.•Hydrophilic exterior surfaces suppress water diffusibility thus increase entrance resistanc.•Hydrophobic interior/exterior surface can promote water flux.