An anion exchange membrane fuel cell (alkaline membrane fuel cell) was operated after the absorption of carbon dioxide. The release of carbon dioxide from the anode, which is known as "self-purging", was observed during cell operation. The content of carbonate ions in the electrolyte membrane after it reached a steady-state was assumed to be a function of the current density. A mathematical model was developed to explain the experimental results. (C) 2011 The Electrochemical Society. [DOI: 10.1149/1.3576120] All rights reserved.