Abstract: A sealed fuel cell assembly comprising a sealed active region comprising an ionomer electrolyte disposed between an anode electrode and a cathode electrode to form a membrane electrode assembly; a sealed manifold region adjacent the sealed active area; and an elastomeric seal comprising a first elastomeric seal bead circumscribing a periphery of the membrane electrode assembly and a second elastomeric seal bead circumscribing a periphery of a manifold port; wherein the elastomeric seal further comprises a reinforcing material that is physically separated from the membrane electrode assembly and has a lower elasticity than the elastomeric seal.