Microfluidic fuel cell systems with embedded materials and structures and method thereof

A microfluidic fuel cell system comprising:

• at least one fuel cell having an MEA containing an anode, anode catalyst, an electrolyte, cathode catalyst, and a cathode, said electrolyte comprising a proton exchange membrane having a thickness in the range of about 5-50 μm and operating at a temperature less than or equal to about 200° C.;
• a microfluidic fuel distribution structure comprising at least one microfluidic channel connecting a reservoir containing fuel to the anode, wherein said fuel is distributed to the surface area of the anode by a plurality of microfluidic fuel distribution channels;
• at least one resistive heating element to control the temperature of the MEA;
• at least one electrical isolation layer positioned above said resistive heating element;
• at least one feedthrough electrical connection to extract electrical power generated by the fuel cell;
• and
• a microporous anode support layer connected to said microfluidic fuel distribution channels.