Titanium Mesh Anode Supply Chain for Hydrogen Production—Trends and Future Outlook
The green hydrogen revolution is reshaping industries and global supply chains. At the core of this shift lies a critical component the titanium mesh anode. Durable, corrosion-resistant, and highly efficient, it plays a vital role in water electrolysis, the process that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen.
SAVEIONS LTD is at the forefront of this transformation, supplying high-performance Platinum-Coated Titanium Mesh Anodes and MMO Titanium Mesh Anodes to electrolyzer manufacturers around the world.
The Role of Titanium Mesh Anodes in Hydrogen Production
In both Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) and Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolysers, titanium mesh anodes enable the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Titanium is chosen for its natural resistance to corrosion and excellent strength-to-weight ratio, while mesh geometry increases the surface area for reactions and allows gases to escape more easily. When coated with platinum, it delivers outstanding conductivity and catalytic activity; with mixed metal oxides (MMO), it becomes a cost-effective and long-life solution for industrial use.
Understanding the Supply Chain
The titanium mesh anode supply chain starts with mining titanium ores such as ilmenite and rutile. China, Mozambique, South Africa, and Australia are the largest producers, with China accounting for almost half of global output in 2024. The ore is refined into titanium sponge or ingots, typically using the Kroll Process, before being rolled or expanded into mesh sheets.
Coating is the next critical step. Platinum coatings are preferred for PEM electrolysers due to their superior catalytic performance, while MMO coatings are popular in cost-sensitive applications. These coatings are applied using techniques such as electroplating, thermal decomposition, or physical vapour deposition (PVD). The finished mesh is then supplied to electrolyser manufacturers, who integrate it into stacks for hydrogen production.
Current Supply Chain Challenges
The titanium mesh anode supply chain faces some notable challenges. Titanium prices have risen by around 18% between 2021 and 2024, driven by competition from aerospace and defence sectors. Platinum costs remain high, ranging from $920 to $1,050 per ounce in 2024, which directly impacts anode prices. Production capacity for high-grade titanium mesh is concentrated in a handful of countries, creating potential supply risks, while geopolitical tensions further complicate raw material security.
For background on titanium production, visit USGS Titanium Statistics.
Market Data and Demand Growth
The numbers illustrate just how rapidly demand is expanding. The global green hydrogen market was valued at $9.5 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 54% through 2030, according to BloombergNEF. The International Energy Agency estimates global electrolyser capacity will reach 210 GW by 2030. Given that a 1 MW PEM electrolyser typically requires 20–30 kg of titanium mesh, meeting these targets will require more than 4,000 tonnes of titanium mesh anodes globally within the next six years.
Future Outlook
The supply chain is expected to evolve in several ways. Localised processing hubs in Europe, the US, and Japan will reduce reliance on imports from a small group of countries. Recycling will become a bigger part of the equation, with decommissioned titanium mesh being recovered and recoated instead of discarded. Advances in catalyst technology will allow manufacturers to reduce platinum use by replacing part of it with iridium, ruthenium oxides, or nanostructured MMO coatings. Many electrolyser manufacturers will also vertically integrate their supply chains, installing in-house coating facilities to secure material availability and shorten lead times.
SAVEIONS – A Reliable Partner for the Hydrogen Industry
SAVEIONS LTD ensures consistent supply of premium titanium mesh anodes for the hydrogen sector. Its Platinum-Coated Titanium Mesh Anode offers unmatched performance for PEM electrolysers, while the MMO Titanium Mesh Anode delivers long-lasting performance for industrial electrolysis and cathodic protection. By combining advanced coating technologies with global distribution capabilities, SAVEIONS helps manufacturers meet growing demand while maintaining high quality and efficiency.