NOVELTY - The fuel cell system comprises a first membrane-electrode assembly, a second membrane-electrode assembly, and a bipolar plate. The bipolar plate is disposed between the first and second membrane-electrode assemblies, and comprises a graphite layer (302) and a surface energy adjustment layer. The surface energy adjustment layer: is disposed between the graphite layer and the first and second membrane-electrode assemblies; is configured to disrupt electrolyte (104) wicking into pores (304) of the graphite layer; and comprises a sealing layer and a porous media layer (306) with pores (308).    USE - The fuel cell system is useful in back-up power supply system and for primary power applications.    ADVANTAGE - The fuel cell system exhibits high operating efficiency, long lifespan, and enhanced performance.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - The fuel cell system comprises a first membrane-electrode assembly, a second membrane-electrode assembly, and a bipolar plate. The bipolar plate is disposed between the first and second membrane-electrode assemblies, and comprises a graphite layer (302) and a surface energy adjustment layer. The surface energy adjustment layer: is disposed between the graphite layer and the first and second membrane-electrode assemblies; is configured to disrupt electrolyte (104) wicking into pores (304) of the graphite layer; comprises a sealing layer, a porous media layer (306) with pores (308) of a larger width and diameter than pores of the graphite layer, and a polymer and a doped polymer; and is chemically or physically bonded to the graphite layer. The pores of the porous media layer comprise an average width of 10-300 microns. The doped polymer is doped with electrically conductive particles. INDEPENDENT CLAIMS are included for:    (1) a bipolar plate for a fuel cell system; and    (2) a method of making a bipolar plate.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The diagram shows a schematic view of a modified bipolar plate.    Electrolyte (104)    Graphite layer (302)    Pores of graphite layer (304)    Porous media layer (306)    Pores of porous media layer. (308)