Merck opens new molybdenum production facility in South Korea

Merck Electronics has inaugurated a new production facility in Eumseong, South Korea, dedicated to manufacturing molybdenum precursors, specifically molybdenum dichloride (MoO2Cl2). This facility is part of the company’s ‘Local for Local’ strategy to provide rapid, on-site support to semiconductor manufacturers in the region.

Benjamin Hain, CEO of Merck Electronics, stated during his first visit to South Korea that the new plant is designed to meet a projected doubling of semiconductor material demand over the next five years. The facility will primarily serve Korean customers, including Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, while also supporting clients across Asia.

Molybdenum is a critical material for advanced semiconductor processes, such as Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD). It offers lower resistivity compared to tungsten, which enhances signal speeds and chip performance in advanced memory and logic semiconductors. The Eumseong site will work in conjunction with Merck’s existing Ansan operations to integrate material supply with specialized delivery systems.