A series of composite membranes were prepared with poly(vinyl alcohol) as substrate material and ZSM-5 zeolite particles and fumaric acid as crosslinking agents, and the effect of zeolite content on properties of composite membranes was studied. The composite membranes were fabricated by solution casting method, and examined by X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscope analysis, determining the tensile properties, water swelling, simultaneous light transmittance and haze. After cross-linked with fumaric acid, the tensile strength and water resistance properties of the PVA membranes have obviously been modified but the membrane tensile strength gradually decreased as the zeolite content increased. The addition of ZSM-5 zeolites has reduced the degree of swelling and light transmittance of the membranes. The composite membrane with 5 wt% of ZSM-5 zeolite content had relatively better properties based on comprehensive measurement results.