French energy leader launches world’s largest plant for gas essential for artificial intelligence chips, anticipating market explosion

Air Liquide, a key player in the energy sector, has just launched its largest plant in the world dedicated to the production of ultra-pure molybdenum, a gas essential for the manufacture of artificial intelligence chips. Located in Hwaseong, South Korea, this facility demonstrates the group’s anticipation of the expected explosion in the next-generation semiconductor market. Thanks to its expertise in advanced materials, Air Liquide is solidifying its leadership position in this strategic sector. The French-based Air Liquide Group marked a turning point in the semiconductor industry with the inauguration of the world’s largest ultra-pure molybdenum production plant in Hwaseong, South Korea. This gas is crucial for the manufacture of advanced chips that power artificial intelligence and other innovative technologies. This initiative reinforces the group’s role as a global leader in advanced materials required for cutting-edge electronics and is part of a broader strategy to anticipate growth in the semiconductor market. Air Liquide, a pillar of the semiconductor industryWith the inauguration of a molybdenum plant of unprecedented scale, Air Liquide demonstrates its intention to remain the leader in the field of industrial gases for electronics. This site embodies the pinnacle of French technological expertise within a rapidly expanding South Korean ecosystem, demonstrating a thoughtful strategy of establishing operations in key hubs around the world, such as Korea, Japan, and soon the United States.Molybdenum Revolution: A Decisive Step ForwardThe Subleem™ range, developed by Air Liquide, represents a decisive step forward in the chip industry, replacing traditional tungsten components with molybdenum This lighter material, which can be etched at the atomic scale, optimizes chip production by improving conduction speed and minimizing the space required for next-generation transistors. This innovation is a major driver for the evolution toward more complex chip architectures.

A site for optimal performance The new Korean plant is a true flagship of the industry, designed to respond nimbly to the fluctuating and complex needs of semiconductor fabs. Directly connected to the main production lines, it offers a fast and reliable flow of supplies, essential to guarantee chip performance at every stage of manufacturing. Global coverage and market anticipation

By adding strategic sites in Korea, Japan, and the United States, Air Liquide ensures comprehensive coverage of the most demanding markets. This global expansion makes it possible to effectively meet ever-growing demand while reducing environmental impact through local sourcing. Convergence of Technologies and the Chip Industry

The increasing miniaturization of electronic components and the transition to molybdenum represent a major industrial challenge, but also a strategic opportunity for Air Liquide. By positioning its resources and innovations at the heart of technological developments, the group is establishing itself as a key player in the electronics of the future.