This disclosure is about invention of fuel cells comprising vertically free-standing graphene and carbon nanosheets in the components, and methods of making thereof. Performance enhancement effect of the fuel cell is achieved by using: an electrically conducting component whose surface is covered by vertically free-standing graphene and carbon nanosheets; and/or a catalyst supporting structure made of vertically free-standing graphene and carbon nanosheets; and/or a catalyst based on vertically free-standing graphene and carbon nanosheets. Layers of fuel cells embedded with vertically free-standing graphene and carbon nanosheets can be mechanically strengthened. Vertically free-standing graphene and carbon nanosheets embedded in the electrodes can also enhance the electrical conductivity.