by POSCOKR
Prove hydrogen-based steelmaking works at 300 kt/yr scale, validate ore supply chains, and establish economics for commercial 1–2 Mt/yr plants by early 2030s.
Demo plant under construction in Pohang. First trial operation due 2028.
Updated 30 Oct 2025Checked 11 Oct0 updates this week
Uses fines directly in fluidised beds instead of pelletising, saving energy and simplification steps.
Hydrogen gas in 500–700°C fluidised bed reactors reduces iron oxides (Fe₂O₃, Fe₃O₄) to metallic iron.
Output is partly metallic solid DRI, free of slag and low in gangue. Cooled and prepared for smelting.
DRI is melted in electric arc furnace without coal combustion, enabling renewable power use.
| Spec | HyREX hydrogen direct reduction |
|---|---|
| Demo plant capacity | 300 kt/yrR (reported) |
R reported by the company
POSCO
HyREX hydrogen ironmaking, green steel
POSCO is South Korea's largest steelmaker. It is developing HyREX, a hydrogen-based direct reduction process for producing steel with lower emissions. A 300 kt/yr demo plant is planned in Pohang by 2028.
