Proton exchange membrane (PEM) for a fuel cell

A new proton electrolyte membrane (PEM) and a fuel cell using that PEM are disclosed. The PEM comprises a polymer matrix and an ionically conductive ceramic material adapted to create a superconductive interface, the ceramic material being uniformly dispersed throughout the matrix. The polymer matrix is selected from the group consisting of proton exchange polymers, non-proton exchange polymers, and combinations thereof. The material is selected from the group consisting of beta aluminum oxide, fumed AlO, SnO(nHO), SiO, e.g. fumed SiO, HSiWO(28HO), tin mordenite/SnOcomposite, zirconium phosphate-phosphate/silica composite.