According to Primetals Technologies, the plant will be built around its HyREX technology, which uses sinter fines, forgoing the need for agglomeration processes, like pelletizing and sintering. Primetals Technologies said POSCO intends to continue evaluating the commercial feasibility of hydrogen-based hot metal with an eye to replacing its blast furnaces with HyREX plants.

Start-up of the plant is scheduled for early 2027.

“For the development of eco-friendly hydrogen-based hot metal production, collaboration across all sectors such as raw materials, engineering and hydrogen is essential. Thanks to the collaboration between POSCO and Primetals Technologies, we will make use of leading technological knowledge during development and implementation,” said Kisoo Kim, head of low-carbon process research and development at POSCO.