# Korea Institute of Energy Research catalyst developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/korea-institute-of-energy-research-catalyst-developments
> Updated: 2026-10-27T00:47:39.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Researchers at the Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) have announced two distinct advancements in catalyst technology.

In early October, the institute developed a hybrid catalyst designed for ammonia-fueled ships to mitigate environmental impacts. This technology aims to remove approximately 99% of nitrogen oxides and unburned ammonia within a single layer, potentially reducing catalyst requirements by half and costs by at least 80% compared to precious metal-based alternatives. The team also created a nitrous oxide decomposition catalyst that operates at 350°C, which is roughly 100°C lower than current commercial options.

Later in the month, a collaborative research team involving KIER and partners from the United States and Japan developed a selective Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) technology. This method allows for precise control over the size and position of catalyst atoms. When applied to methane conversion, the technique increased methane conversion rates from 6.9% to 51.7% and improved ethylene yield 29-fold. The process is noted for being cost-effective and suitable for mass production due to its operation at relatively low temperatures and atmospheric pressure.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-27: Korea Institute of Energy Research develops precision catalyst manufacturing technology

Researchers from South Korea, the US, and Japan developed a selective CVD technology that precisely places catalyst atoms, significantly increasing methane-to-ethylene conversion efficiency.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/korea-institute-of-energy-research-develops-precision-catalyst-manufacturing-technology

### 2026-10-01: Korea Institute of Energy Research develops hybrid catalyst for ammonia ships

The Korea Institute of Energy Research has developed a hybrid catalyst that removes 99% of pollutants from ammonia-fueled ships, significantly reducing costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/korea-institute-of-energy-research-develops-hybrid-catalyst-for-ammonia-ships

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Cite as: Korea Institute of Energy Research catalyst developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/korea-institute-of-energy-research-catalyst-developments