Global
Helium Supply Concerns
Prelims:
Science
& Technology, Economic Geography
Mains:
GS
Paper III-Science & Technology, Economy, International Relations
Current
relevance:
China has
temporarily imposed an immediate ban on helium exports, raising concerns
over global helium supply.
Highlights:
1. China has imposed
a temporary ban on helium exports, adding to existing global supply
uncertainties.
2. Although
China produces only about 1.6% of the world's helium, it imports over 80%
of its domestic requirement.
3. The major
helium producers are United States, Qatar, Russia, Canada, Algeria.
About Helium:
1. Helium is a
non-renewable natural resource formed by the radioactive decay of uranium
and thorium within the Earth's crust.
2. It is the second
lightest element after hydrogen and is colourless, odourless,
non-toxic, and chemically inert.
3. It has an
extremely low boiling point of about −269°C, making it ideal for cryogenic
applications.
4. Strategic Resource:
i.
It is essential for semiconductor
manufacturing and MRI scanners.
ii.
It supports advanced technologies such as
quantum computing, aerospace, and rocket systems.
iii.
It is also critical for fibre-optic manufacturing
and leak detection applications.
Source:
THE HINDU -
https://www.pressreader.com/foryou?popupArticleId=281801405717526