POSCO Group is producing steel materials that are essential for the global move toward decarbonization. The company’s advanced steel products and customized solutions are used in industries such as oil and gas, power generation, and renewable energy. These efforts aim to improve safety, efficiency, and durability in the energy sector.
One of POSCO’s key products is PosMAC, a high-corrosion-resistant alloy-coated steel. This material is widely used in energy storage systems (ESS), including battery enclosures developed by LG Energy Solution. The corrosion resistance of PosMAC is more than five times greater than that of conventional galvanized steel, making it suitable for use in harsh environments like coastal or high-humidity areas. Its application extends to wind turbine components, offshore wind structures, and solar module mounting systems. By increasing equipment lifespan and reducing maintenance needs, PosMAC supports sustainable energy growth.
The company also produces specialized steel for hydrogen pipelines. Hydrogen transport requires materials that can resist hydrogen embrittlement—a process where hydrogen reduces metal toughness—and maintain performance under extreme conditions. POSCO’s pipeline steel meets these requirements and allows domestic production at about 70% of the cost compared to imported alternatives. The product has passed international safety standards after extensive testing. POSCO plans to introduce new high-strength materials compliant with API X70 standards for use in high-pressure environments by 2025, working with organizations such as Korea Gas Corporation and Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science.
For liquefied hydrogen storage tanks, which operate at extremely low temperatures of –253°C, POSCO has developed high-manganese steel containing over 22% manganese. This material offers strong performance at cryogenic temperatures with high strength and wear resistance while being non-magnetic. Its yield strength is about twice that of standard stainless steel but comes at a lower manufacturing cost due to the abundance of manganese worldwide. High-manganese steel has received certifications from global organizations and was adopted by the International Maritime Organization for use in cryogenic cargo tanks without separate approval.
In the area of carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS), POSCO supplies LT-FH36 steel for liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO₂) carriers. LCO₂ must be transported under both low temperature and controlled pressure, requiring advanced steels like LT-FH36 that perform reliably at –60°C with a yield strength above 355 MPa even after post-weld heat treatment. This product became the first globally certified for large-scale LCO₂ carriers by Lloyd’s Register in 2023. It is currently being used in construction projects such as HD Hyundai Mipo’s 22,000m³-class vessels—the world’s largest LCO₂ carriers.
Looking ahead, POSCO aims to develop even stronger grades such as LT-FH51 and LT-FH70 to support future ultra-large tankers.
POSCO Group continues to focus on developing materials technologies that support infrastructure changes needed for a sustainable global energy future.
