Abstract: The present invention is directed to a metal air electrochemical cell whereby the anode is encapsulated with a protective layer. The encapsulated metal air anode provides prolonged submersion of anodes in electrolyte, improved metal anode discharge and decreased metal anode corrosion.

Abstract: Herein provided are polyelectrolyte membranes that block dendrite growth in rechargeable batteries, possess low inherent electrical resistance to be used as separators, possess high ionic conductivities, and block fuel crossover in direct fuel feeding fuel cells. Further provided are cost-effective processes for forming polyelectrolyte membranes. The herein described polyelectrolyte membranes are useful in electrochemical cells such as primary batteries, secondary batteries such as Ag—Zn, Ni—Zn, Ni-MH, Li polymer, and Li-ion; fuel cells including but not limited to metal air battery or fuel cells, proton exchange membrane hydrogen fuel cells, direct liquid feed fuel cell.