A novel preparation method for a composite proton exchange membrane with reinforced strength and self-humidifying property was developed. Using self-assembly method, highly dispersed poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) stabilized Pt nanoparticles were mounted onto the pores of poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) porous film to serve the self-humidifying purpose. With Pt nanoparticles fixed on the PTFE pores, the potential problem of any short circuit because of the use of metal nanoparticles can be prevented. Pt-PDDA/PTFE substrate in the composite membrane can enhance the mechanical strength of the membrane and distribute self-humidifying layer adjacent to the anode side. Compared with the cells fabricated with conventional Nafion (R) and PTFE/Nafion membranes, the performance of the cells with this composite membrane is dramatically improved under dry conditions. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique revealed that these self-humidifying composite membranes could minimize membrane conductivity loss under dry conditions. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.