Water transport properties of bio-nanocomposites reinforced by Luffa cylindrica cellulose nanocrystals

► Bio-nanocomposites evaluated in terms of barrier properties to diffusing molecules. ► The forming dense cellulose network evidenced a reverse behavior of nanocomposites. ► A contrary behavior between water permeability and diffusivity is put forward. ► A peculiar behavior with water is favored when surface-modified cellulose is added. ► The water sorption results simulated by using well-known mathematical models.