Heesung Catalysts Signs MOU with Biofriends to Develop Catalysts for Clean Fuel Production

2025.04.18

On April 17, Heesung Catalysts signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Biofriends Co., Ltd., aiming to jointly develop and commercialize high-performance catalysts for clean fuel production, with a focus on dimethyl ether (DME), syngas (synthetic gas), and methanol manufacturing processes.

Under the agreement, Biofriends will provide core process technologies and operational expertise related to DME production, syngas generation, and methanol synthesis. Heesung Catalysts will develop and supply high-activity, high-durability catalysts optimized for these clean fuel production processes.

DME (dimethyl ether) is emerging as a next-generation clean fuel and a promising diesel alternative, thanks to its low particulate emissions and compatibility with existing LPG infrastructure. It is increasingly being used in LPG-DME blended fuels, industrial combustion, and transportation sectors. With expanding international regulations and demand for carbon-neutral alternatives, DME is positioned as a key player in the global clean energy transition.

Heesung Catalysts, known for its advanced catalyst design, manufacturing expertise, and field-proven reliability, plans to enhance fuel conversion efficiency and process economics through customized catalytic solutions. This collaboration aims to accelerate the commercialization of clean fuel technologies and contribute to global carbon neutrality goals.

Biofriends, a specialized hydrogen and climate tech company, develops innovative technologies for CO₂ capture and utilization (CCU) and produces carbon-reducing fuels such as DME and methanol by converting captured carbon and hydrogen. The company is also expanding its presence in Southeast Asia and other global markets with large-scale clean fuel production facilities.

This partnership marks a strategic alignment between process innovation and catalyst engineering, and both companies are committed to scaling clean fuel technologies for industrial application and environmental impact.