In this study, an experimental measurement system was established to examine the heat and water transfer process for a porous plate in the self-humidifying system of a fuel cell. The physical parameters of the fluid flow and porous plates were evaluated for their effects on the heat and water transfer characteristics of the porous plates. The results showed that using a countercurrent flow and increasing the inlet temperature and relative humidity of the humidifying gas can improve the heat transfer and water transmission on both sides of the porous plates. Meanwhile, using a countercurrent flow, increasing the inlet temperature of the humidifying gas, and decreasing the relative humidity can improve the water recovery rate. In addition, increasing the porosity of the porous medium can promote water transfer. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.