Embodiments of this invention among others include fuel cells fuel cell membranes micro-fuel cells and methods of fabricating each. An exemplary fuel cell includes a membrane comprising a membrane material selected from organic conducting materials inorganic conducting materials and combinations thereof; a catalyst layer disposed on a first side of the membrane; and a concentrated methanol fuel having a concentration of greater than about 3M methanol. These membranes and miniaturized fuel cells can provide power sources with higher energy density and lower cost will enable a wider range of usage and functionality. Applications: In general the fuel cell membranes and micro-fuel cells can be used in technology areas such as microelectronics (e.g. microprocessor chips communication chips and optoelectronic chips) micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) microfluidic devices sensors analytical devices (e.g. microchromatography) communication/positioning devices (e.g. beacons and GPS systems) recording devices and mobile communication devices.
1) Fuel cells can be used in electronic devices with small power requirements 2) Fuel cells can operate on alternative hydrocarbon sources specifically methane or methane-water blends 3) The fuel cell membrane and the micro-fuel cell can be directly integrated into the electronic device