Abstract A study of a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) operating with hydroxide ion conducting membranes is reported. Evaluation of the fuel cell was performed using membrane electrode assemblies incorporating carbon-supported platinum/ruthenium anode and platinum cathode catalysts and ADP alkaline membranes. Catalyst loadings used were 1 mg cm −2 Pt for both anode and cathode. The effect of temperature, oxidant (air or oxygen) and methanol concentration on cell performance is reported. The cell achieved a power density of 16 mW cm −2 , at 60 °C using oxygen. The performance under near ambient conditions with air gave a peak power density of approximately 6 mW cm −2 .