PROTON CONDUCTOR AND ELECTROCHEMICAL DEVICE USING THE SAME

A proton conductor which comprises a carbon cluster having a functional group capable of releasing a proton and a substance having a moiety capable of accepting a proton, or which comprises a substance capable of releasing a proton and a carbon cluster having a moiety capable of accepting a proton. A carbon cluster, in particular, a carbon cluster having a specific structure such as fullerene or carbon nanotube has proton conductivity also in a dry condition, and exhibits markedly improved proton conductivity when combined with a substance capable of accelerating the dissociation of a proton. The proton conductor requires no replenishment of moisture and can be used also in a dry atmosphere and at a high temperature.