US designates helium as critical material as Europe faces supply squeeze
- Published on 23/10/2026 - 21:02 GMT+2 The United States designated helium as a critical material on Friday, citing its essential role in semiconductor manufacturing and energy production, as well as growing concerns over disruptions to global supplies.
- The move by the US Department of Energy will make additional federal funding available to helium producers and bring the material under closer government monitoring.
- Helium is mainly extracted as a byproduct of natural gas processing.
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- Published on 23/10/2026 - 21:02 GMT+2 The United States designated helium as a critical material on Friday, citing its essential role in semiconductor manufacturing and energy production, as well as growing concerns over disruptions to global supplies.
- The move by the US Department of Energy will make additional federal funding available to helium producers and bring the material under closer government monitoring.
- Helium is mainly extracted as a byproduct of natural gas processing.
Sources: Euronews