Investigation of the local catalyst distribution in an aged direct methanol fuel cell MEA by means of differential synchrotron X-ray absorption edge imaging with high energy resolution

► Catalyst aging was studied using a novel element selective method. ► Differential synchrotron X-ray radiography revealed ruthenium and platinum distribution quantitatively. ► Upon aging significant redistribution of the catalytic elements in the MEAs of DMFCs were found. ► Differences in XAS characteristics were found between thin and thick catalyst layers.