A recent study published in Nature Materials details the breakthrough made by scientists at the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) regarding the corrosion of platinum electrodes. For almost two decades, researchers have been puzzled by how negatively polarized platinum electrodes degrade, impacting hydrogen production technologies and electrochemical sensors. The collaboration between Leiden University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory led to the identification of platinum hydride formation as the culprit behind the corrosion, offering potential advancements in renewable energy. The team utilized high-energy-resolution X-ray spectroscopy methods at SSRL to observe platinum actively corroding in an electrolyte, ultimately confirming the theory of platinum hydride formation. The study sheds light on the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and advanced scientific techniques in solving long-standing scientific questions. By understanding the mechanisms of platinum corrosion, researchers can now work towards developing solutions for electrolyzers and various electrochemical devices.