Platinum/Stainless-Steel mesh electrode fabrication via Chemically thermal reduction for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction

Platinum-based electrodes continue to be extensively studied, with a key focus on decreasing their cost. This research addresses this challenge by depositing platinum (Pt) nanoparticles onto a cost-effective stainless steel mesh (SSM) substrate for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Pt nanoparticles were deposited on SSM (Pt/SSM) using a simple chemical thermal reduction method. The effects of varying the concentration of the K₂PtCl₄ precursor on Pt deposition and catalytic performance were investigated. Results showed that higher precursor concentrations led to increased Pt loading and improved HER activity, although the loading remained lower than that of commercial electrodes (0.011 mg/cm²). The optimized Pt/SSM, prepared with a 2 mM K₂PtCl₄ solution, achieved a low overpotential of 101 mV and a Tafel slope of 53 mV/decade in 0.5 M H₂SO₄, with excellent stability. These findings highlight the potential of Pt/SSM electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen production and emphasize the importance of electrolyte conditions in optimizing performance.