(JP10312815-A)      A composite membrane comprises a porous substrate of randomly oriented individual fibres and at least one ion conducting polymer embedded within the substrate.    Also claimed are (1) a laminated composite membrane comprising 2 or more polymer containing layers, where at least 1 layer is the above composite membrane; and (2) the manufacture of the composite membrane comprising taking a pre-formed substrate, formed by adapting a continuous manufacturing process, of randomly orientated individual fibres and applying the polymeric material, by impregnation.    USE -   The composite membrane is used in a membrane electrode assembly and a fuel cell (claimed). Also used in electrochemical devices found in e.g. fuel cells, batteries, sensors, electrodialysis reactors and electrolytic reactors for a diverse range of applications including the electrolysis of water, chemical synthesis, salt splitting, water purification, effluent treatment, metal finishing, etc..    ADVANTAGE -   The composite member is easily manufactured in a few steps, making it more cost effective and commercially viable.    (US6042958-A)      A composite membrane comprises a porous substrate of randomly oriented individual fibres and at least one ion conducting polymer embedded within the substrate.    Also claimed are (1) a laminated composite membrane comprising 2 or more polymer containing layers, where at least 1 layer is the above composite membrane; and (2) the manufacture of the composite membrane comprising taking a pre-formed substrate, formed by adapting a continuous manufacturing process, of randomly orientated individual fibres and applying the polymeric material, by impregnation.    USE -   The composite membrane is used in a membrane electrode assembly and a fuel cell (claimed). Also used in electrochemical devices found in e.g. fuel cells, batteries, sensors, electrodialysis reactors and electrolytic reactors for a diverse range of applications including the electrolysis of water, chemical synthesis, salt splitting, water purification, effluent treatment, metal finishing, etc..    ADVANTAGE -   The composite member is easily manufactured in a few steps, making it more cost effective and commercially viable.