How to separate platinum from steel? I'm currently extracting some platinum from an electrode. One part seems stuck in some way (possibly welded) to a piece of steel. I'm guessing it's steel because it's magnetic. I did a heat test on the piece. Results:



Left side is platinum, right side suspected steel, and the platinum is not oxidized, as expected. What would be the best/easiest way to


determine if this is actually steel/iron;  
dissolve or otherwise separate it?


My resources are limited, I've got a propane torch and household items, and can of course order chemicals if needed, but no acetylene torch or anything.
Cut off as much of the "steel" as possible (hacksaw or angle grinder will work - use gloves &amp; eye protection) then immerse the stub in 33% hydrochloric acid until the "steel" remnants are fully dissolved. Neutralise the acid with bicarbonate before disposal.