Abstract: There is provided an RFID transceiver, typically in the form of a prox-wafer. The transceiver is suitable for lamination or encapsulation into newly manufactured identification (ID) badges and similar articles. These ID badges are suitable for identifying and/or authenticating a person or object when used in conjunction with an RFID identification system. The proximity badges formed using the RFID transceivers are superior to conventional magnetic stripe, bar code, or “smart chip” badges because no direct contact with a badge reader is required and the element containing the identification code is not easily corrupted.

Abstract: A membrane-electrode assembly for electrochemical cells such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells and direct methanol fuel cells operating at ambient conditions are activated first by exposing them at a temperature higher than ambient temperature and with the gaseous reactants back-pressurized. The performance of the membrane-electrode assemblies, especially those whose electrodes are of low catalyst loadings made using supported catalysts, improves dramatically after the activation.