OCI Accelerates Expansion of Semiconductor Phosphoric Acid Production, Considering Further Increases

Production Capacity to Increase by 20% in the Second Half Through Efficiency Improvements
Responding to Rising Demand from Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Others
Full-Scale Launch of New Businesses Including Silicon Anode Materials

OCI will expand its production capacity in the second half of this year to respond to the growing demand for semiconductor phosphoric acid. This expansion will be carried out through a 'debottlenecking' approach to improve production efficiency, and the company stated that further expansions will be considered if necessary.

On August 5, OCI announced that it will begin upgrading its production facilities in the second half of this year, aiming to increase its annual semiconductor phosphoric acid production capacity from the current 25,000 tons to 30,000 tons, an increase of 5,000 tons. The expansion is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2026. The company also stated that additional phased expansions are possible depending on further increases in customer demand. Last year, OCI was newly selected as a supplier of semiconductor phosphoric acid for SK Hynix, and in 2023, it was chosen as a supplier for Samsung Electronics' Taylor plant in Texas, USA, rapidly expanding its presence both domestically and internationally.

Aerial view of OCI Gunsan Plant in Gunsan, Jeonbuk. Photo by Yonhap News

Semiconductor phosphoric acid is an essential material used in wafer etching processes and is applied in most processes, including DRAM, NAND, and foundry. As the semiconductor industry recovers, customer demand is increasing, and OCI currently supplies to major domestic semiconductor companies such as Samsung Electronics, DB Hitek, and SK Key Foundry.

OCI also reported that its existing hydrogen peroxide business, another semiconductor material segment, is being operated stably. OCI has been producing hydrogen peroxide since 1979 and currently has an annual production capacity of 125,000 tons. The company explained that although there was a recent adjustment due to a decrease in legacy semiconductor production, a gradual rebound in demand is expected as major customers such as Samsung Electronics recover their production levels.

Meanwhile, OCI recently began pilot production of a special material for silicon anodes, which is being pursued as a new business. This material is a key component for anodes that enhances both the energy density and stability of secondary batteries. Last month, OCI completed the mechanical construction of the related production facilities and plans to begin full-scale supply to UK-based Nexeon starting in 2026.

Vice Chairman Kim Yushin stated, "We will drive mid- to long-term growth by strengthening our competitiveness in advanced materials such as semiconductors and secondary batteries."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.