Abstract Silicon and silicon-based compounds are extensively used in various applications, including electronics, solar panels, construction materials, automotive technology and medical devices. What is little reported is that these materials are largely utilized in fuel cells, playing various roles. The utilization of Si-based and Si-containing compounds, such as oxide (SiO2) and non-oxide (TiSiN) ceramics, SiOC black glasses and borosilicate glasses and glass ceramics, in composite matrices and coatings for bipolar plates/interconnects, and in sealant materials for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cells fuel cells is presented and discussed.