StoryPartnership
BHP and POSCO sign partnership for HyREX hydrogen ironmaking development
POSCOHyREX hydrogen direct reduction
BHP and POSCO signed a memorandum of understanding on October 30 to advance HyREX hydrogen-based ironmaking. Partnership focuses on ore supply characterisation and supply chain validation for a 300 kt/yr Pohang demo plant due to begin trial operation in 2028.
- HyREX uses hydrogen in fluidised beds to reduce iron oxides, producing DRI without pelletising.
- BHP's friable iron ore suits direct reduction without pelletising, making it a strategic partner for validating supply.
- Pohang demo is stepping stone to commercial 1–2 Mt/yr plants by early 2030s if hydrogen costs decline.