tech
The Iran war is threatening supply of a little-thought-of resource
Supply allocations are being set by who needs the gas the most. Semiconductors are at the "top of the pecking order," said helium consultant Phil Kornbluth.
TL;DR
- The war in the Middle East is disrupting the global supply of helium, a critical resource for industries like semiconductor manufacturing and medical imaging.
- Qatar, a major helium producer, has experienced production halts due to Iranian attacks, leading to significant price increases for the gas.
- South Korea and Taiwan, leading semiconductor manufacturers, are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on Middle Eastern helium.
- While semiconductors are prioritized in potential allocations, a prolonged shortage could impact various sectors, and even prioritized industries will face higher prices.
- The duration of the conflict is a key factor; a short disruption might be absorbed due to previous oversupply, but a lengthy one could have more severe consequences, though some industrial gas producers may see financial benefits.