A membrane electrode assembly includes an anode; a cathode; a membrane
disposed between the anode and the cathode; and an extended catalyzed
layer between the membrane and at least one electrode of the anode and
the cathode. The extended catalyzed layer includes catalyst particles
embedded in membrane material and preferably includes a first plurality
of particles which are electrically connected to the at least one
electrode. The extended catalyzed layer may further preferably have a
second plurality of particles which are electrically disconnected from
the at least one electrode.