(Reuters) -Finnish steelmaker Outokumpu said on Tuesday that it had signed a memorandum of understanding with U.S.-based Boston Metal to enhance the production of critical carbon-free metals.

Carbon-free metals are seen as a key component of clean energy transition and a contributor to environmental sustainability.

The two groups intend to establish a joint development project related to the use of Outokumpu's chromium material from its Kemi mine in Finland in components of Boston Metal's molten oxide electrolysis technology.

Boston Metal aims to commercialize the molten oxide electrolysis process with equipment capable of taking the heavy greenhouse gas emissions out of steel production.

"The joint development showcases our ability and commitment to drive our newly announced EVOLVE strategy for 2026-2030 forward," Outokumpu's chief technology Stefan Erdmann said in a statement.