We proposed and tested a new and novel arrangement for a direct methanol fuel cell consisting of one inlet for a methanol solution and four outlets for oxidant gas (air), in both the anode and cathode flow fields. It utilizes different operating temperatures of 40 degrees C and 60 degrees C, and different methanol solution flow rates of 5 ml min(-1), 10 ml min(-1), and 20 ml min(-1). Test results indicate a significant reduction in produced CO2 gas in the anode flow channels and product water in the cathode flow channels; consequently, cell performance can be greatly improved. Furthermore, methanol crossover can also be avoided and reduced. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.