We propose a new anode electrode structure that is composed of a nickel foam layer with thin catalyst films coated onto the skeleton of the foam. This innovative design of the anode electrode enables the integration of the catalyst and diffusion layers, thereby extending the electrochemical active surface area and facilitating the transport of species. The experimental results indicate that the use of the integrated electrode in an anion-exchange membrane direct ethanol fuel cell can significantly improve the cell performance as compared with the use of the conventional electrode that has separated catalyst and diffusion layers; a peak power density of 130 mW cm(-2) and a maximum current density of 1060 mA cm(-2) are achieved at 80 degrees C. Copyright (C) 2011, Hydrogen Energy Publications, LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.