TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Components: The two layers are coextensive across the manifold such that the first layer extends between the peripheral edges of a first side of the manifold and the second layer extends between opposite peripheral edges of a second, oppositely facing side of the manifold. The first and second epoxy resin layers comprise the same epoxy resin. The first layer comprises LYTEX 4149 (RTM: carbon fiber reinforced epoxy resin molding composite) and the second layer comprises LYTEX 9063 (RTM: glass fiber reinforced epoxy resin). The manifold includes an outer side and an, inner side defining flow channels for directing a fluid within an associated fuel cell assembly and wherein the second layer faces the entire inner side and isolates the first layer from the inner side. At least one seal is supported by the second layer for sealing an interface between a portion of the inner side and a corresponding portion of the associated fuel cell assembly. The first layer has a first thickness and the second layer has a nominal thickness along at least portions of the second layer that is much less than the first thickness, other portions of the second layer having a second thickness that is greater than the nominal thickness. The first thickness is approximately constant across the entire first layer.Preferred Process: The process includes preheating the first and second epoxy resins prior to placing the layers into a mold; and heating the first and second layers to 140degreesC and applying a pressure of 750-1250 psi for 10-20 minutes. The first layer is placed adjacent the second layer such that the first layer extends across ca. 70-80% of the second layer surface area. If the first layer is electrically conductive and the second layer is electrically insulating, the second layer is formed such that the second layer extends across an inner side of the manifold such that the second layer completely isolates the first layer from the inner side.