RoK–Vietnam workshop on demonstrating silica production technology from rice husk ash: Promoting cooperation in green technology and carbon-neutral materials
The aim of the workshop was to introduce and promote the Project “Demonstration of silica production technology in Vietnam using agricultural by-products (rice husk ash)”—an applied green-technology research initiative with practical significance in utilising Vietnam’s abundant agricultural resources, contributing to carbon emission reduction and fostering the development of a circular economy.
Panoramic view of the workshop
This demonstration project is part of the “Overseas Green Technology Demonstration Programme”, implemented under the direction of the Programme Director from the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment of the RoK (MCEE). The Korea Environmental Industry & Technology Institute (KEITI) serves as the official funding agency. This strategic cooperation stems from shared interests between the RoK and Vietnam in tackling climate change and stabilising global supply chains.
At the core of the Project is the utilisation of Vietnam’s agricultural by-products, including 10 million tonnes of rice husk and 1 million tonnes of natural rubber produced annually. The objective is to apply advanced Korean technology to extract “nano-porous silica” from rice husks and subsequently produce “high-performance composite materials” by combining this silica with natural rubber. These are key materials for tyre manufacturing and high-end components. Both countries aim to tap into a global market valued at 20 trillion Korean Won (equivalent to 16 billion USD).
Conventional processes are carbon-intensive, requiring high-temperature sand melting. This advanced technology replaces the traditional process entirely with biomass. It is expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping global supply chains and promoting ESG management (Environmental, Social, Governance—three criteria used to measure corporate sustainability and community impact).
In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Tran Dai Lam, President of IMS, emphasised: “Researching and mastering silica production technology from rice husk ash not only delivers scientific and economic value but also opens opportunities for deeper cooperation between Vietnam and the RoK in carbon-neutral materials.”
Prof. Dr. Tran Dai Lam, President of IMS, delivers remarks at the Workshop
Prof. Jong-Kim Kim, CEO of BioNanoKorea, noted: “This is the first demonstration project that realises the spirit of Vietnam–the RoK summits, translating words into action. We are committed to making this project a model success. We aim to create a leading cooperation framework that contributes both to combating the climate crisis and to driving economic growth in both countries.”
Prof. Jong-Kim Kim, CEO of BioNanoKorea, speaks at the Workshop
At the Workshop, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Quang Liem (IMS) introduced the research directions and practical applications pursued by the IMS in the field of silica derived from agricultural by-products. For over ten years, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Quang Liem and his Korean colleague Prof. JongKil Kim, CEO of BNK, have collaborated on studies related to silica extraction technology from agricultural residues. The Workshop provided an opportunity to present pilot-scale results of nano-porous silica production from rice husk ash, which will soon be deployed across the full system at the Tuu Liet testing facility of the IMS by late November 2025. The programme also featured specialised presentations delivered by scientists, experts and enterprises from both countries.
Prof. Dr. Nguyen Quang Liem presents research directions and practical applications at the Workshop
The Workshop served not only as a forum for academic exchange but also as an opportunity for both sides to discuss strategic cooperation models in carbon-neutral materials and green technology. Notably, on November 4, 2025, participants visited the demonstration area for silica production technology from rice husk ash at the pilot station of the Institute of Materials Science, where they observed the process of converting agricultural by-products into high-value materials.
The Workshop was considered an important starting point for establishing a RoK–Vietnam research cooperation network in green technology, helping lay the foundation for future joint projects in carbon-neutral materials, bioenergy and greenhouse gas emission reduction. The event also reflects the role of the Institute of Materials Science in connecting scientific research with production, promoting innovation and accelerating technology transfer to support sustainable development.
Commemorative photo
Translated by Phuong Huyen
Link to Vietnamese version
