Mesoporous acid-free silica xerogels exhibiting a proton conductivity of 2.0 x 10(-2) S cm(-1) at 80 degrees C and 81% RH is reported for the first time. The proton conductivity values, lower cost and higher hydrophilicity of mesoporous silica xerogels make them potential substitutes for Nafion membranes in proton exchange membranes fuel cells (PEMFCs). (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.