A simplified, miniaturized polymer electrolyte fuel cell without gas diffusion layers was investigated under operation by neutron radiography. By visualizing liquid water, it was possible to identify limiting effects, which are directly related to the simplified construction principle. Depending on the operation conditions, undesired water accumulation either in particular micro-channels or on the cathode catalyst layer as well as drying of the anode catalyst layer was observed. As a consequence, the design of a fuel cell without gas diffusion layers must take into account these limitations visualized by neutron radiography. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.