In this study a direct-mode fuel cell in which the fuel and electrolyte are mixed with each other is tested. An alkaline electrolyte is used. The aim was to develop a fuel cell which operates directly by mixing the fuel with the electrolyte. The target is to create a fuel cell with a capacity of a few mW cm(-2) with starch as a fuel source. Starch, glucose, and sorbitol were tested as fuels for the fuel cell. With the selected fuel cell type and with glucose as the fuel, a maximum current density of 8 mA cm(-2) with a voltage of 0.5 V was obtained. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.