A series of novel cross-linked quaternized poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) membranes have been prepared and characterized for alkaline direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) applications. It was found that quaternary ammonium groups were grafted onto the backbone of the PVA chain with low substitution. The ionic conductivity of these new anion exchange membranes can be as high as 7.34 x 10(-3) S/cm in deionized water at 30 degrees C, which is higher than that of other anion exchange membranes. The methanol permeability of the membrane is found to be reduced relative to Nafion (R) 117 membranes, and the methanol permeability decreases with increasing methanol concentration. These new quaternized poly(vinyl alcohol) membranes may be used in alkaline direct methanol fuel cells for easy preparation and lower cost. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.