Clariant, a specialty chemical company focused on sustainability, has renewed its longstanding partnership with Midrex, a global leader in direct reduced iron (DRI) technology. The companies announced plans to deepen their collaboration in natural gas-based DRI solutions—an essential step toward reducing carbon emissions in steel manufacturing.

DRI offers a cleaner alternative to traditional coal-based methods of iron production. The process uses natural gas mixed with recycled carbon dioxide and steam to generate a reducing gas that facilitates ironmaking. At the core of this technology are MIDREX Reformers and Clariant’s REFORMEX catalysts, which are engineered to deliver high activity and thermal stability. Together, they boost productivity, reduce energy use, and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

DRI technology powered by the MIDREX Process helps avoid roughly one metric ton of carbon dioxide emissions per ton of crude steel produced.

“Together with Midrex, we have agreed to intensify our focus on natural gas-based DRI, as it is a critical bridge technology that will greatly support the transition of the steel industry toward net-zero production,” said Georg Anfang, vice president of syngas and fuels at Clariant Catalysts. “While we collaborate on expanding and enhancing our current solution, we are also preparing and innovating for the future.”

Sean Boyle, vice president of commercial operations at Midrex, highlighted the strength of the partnership.

“The MIDREX Process is one of the most widely used technologies for producing all forms of DRI products, and it is well-known for its reliability and continuous operation,” Boyle said. “Clariant’s catalysts are tailor-made for our process to offer optimized and consistent performance. Our joint solution ensures the lowest CO2 emissions of any steelmaking route today.”

Midrex, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been a leading provider of DRI plants and technology for more than 50 years. Its facilities play a significant role in producing low-carbon iron globally. The MIDREX Process can be adapted for natural gas with hydrogen (MIDREX Flex) and for full hydrogen use (MIDREX H2). The plants are also capable of handling various forms of iron ore, including pellets and lump ores.

Clariant’s REFORMEX catalysts have been a core component of the MIDREX Process since the 1980s. Known for their high performance, excellent heat transfer, and mechanical durability, these catalysts are currently in operation at around 50 major steel plants worldwide.

MIDREX® is a registered trademark of Kobe Steel, Ltd. in the United States. REFORMEX® is a registered trademark of Midrex Technologies, Inc.