Rare Gases Shortage Threatens Electronics and Space Industries
The production of Krypton, Xenon, and Neon, crucial for electronics and space industries, has been disrupted. Once a by-product of large air separation units (ASUs), these rare gases are now in short supply, with prices fluctuating wildly. Major production occurs in the Asia-Pacific region, notably China, South Korea, and Japan, driven by strong demand from electronics and semiconductor industries. Companies like SpaceX use Krypton for satellite propulsion, substituting it for Xenon. Most large ASUs, which process 1,500 tons of air or more per day, are attached to steel mills. However, the supply of these rare gases has been substantially compromised in recent years, causing pricing to fluctuate wildly. The shortage of Krypton, Xenon, and Neon is a concern for industries relying on these gases. Stable supply and pricing are crucial for future planning, and companies are exploring alternative sources and recycling options to mitigate the issue.
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