It is difficult to realize a small fuel cell capable of being installed in
mobile device by merely downsizing a conventional fuel cell without
changing the configuration. The present invention provides a small fuel
cell employing a polymer electrolyte thin film, by using a semiconductor
process. A polymer electrolyte thin film fuel cell in accordance with the
present invention comprises: a substrate having a plurality of openings;
an electrolyte membrane-electrode assembly formed on the substrate so as
to cover each of the openings, the assembly comprising a first catalyst
electrode layer, a hydrogen ion conductive polymer electrolyte membrane
and a second catalyst electrode layer which are formed successively; and
fuel and oxidant supply means for supplying a fuel or an oxidant gas to
the first catalyst electrode layer through the openings, and an oxidant
gas or a fuel to the second catalyst electrode layer.