By directly examining fuel cell performances, it was discovered that nonoxide containing materials such as chlorides and fluorides exhibit significant proton and oxygen ion conduction. Ionic transport measurements showed that both proton and oxygen ion conduction are present, with proton conduction predominant in most cases. Steady-state current output under fuel-cell operation indicates that the transport process in both chloride and fluoride electrolytes is dominated by the source ions, protons, and oxygen ions. These new materials have significant importance for both fundamental and applied research.