Abstract: A fuel cell component with surfaces having improved lyophilicity so that liquid on the component adheres closely to the surface in relatively flat droplets or sheets. The lyophilic surfaces may be formed by cold plasma or ultraviolet light treatment of the component. The lyophilic surfaces may be selectively provided on critical areas of the component, such as for example on flow channel wall surfaces of bipolar plates and membrane electrode assemblies, thereby inhibiting liquid blocking of the flow channels during operation of the fuel cell.