Mixed proton-hole conducting ceramic, SrCe0.95Yb0.05O3-alpha (SCYb), hollow fibre membranes have been prepared using a combined immersion-induced phase inversion and sintering technique. Two different sintering routes have been adopted in studying the effect of sintering temperatures on gas-tight properties and mechanical strength of the prepared membranes. By employing longer time of heat treatment after thermolysis (i.e. removal of organic binders and additives at 600 degrees C), the final sintering temperature for preparation of the gas-tight SCYb hollow fibre membranes can be reduced. In addition, mechanical strength of the sintered membrane is found to be remarkably improved. The performance of the prepared SCYb hollow fibre membrane in terms of hydrogen permeation (proton conduction) has also been investigated experimentally. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.