A new report from IDTechEx suggests that helium demand globally is set to double by 2035, driven by the wide-ranging uses of this vital element.
Helium, a finite yet critical resource, is indispensable across multiple industries. From medical imaging to semiconductor manufacturing, helium’s unique properties—such as high thermal conductivity, chemical inertness, and cryogenic capabilities—make it irreplaceable in various high-tech applications.
IDTechEx’s new report, ‘Helium Market 2025-2035: Applications, Alternatives, and Reclamation‘, highlights the various sectors and uses that are increasing helium demand worldwide.
Helium’s critical role in manufacturing
The manufacturing industry heavily relies on helium, particularly due to its cooling and inert properties.
Helium is crucial for thermal management in semiconductor production and fibre optics manufacturing, as well as for leak testing of essential components like HVAC equipment, fuel tanks, and aerospace parts.
Its role in quality control processes and precision welding is equally significant, especially in the production of electrical and automotive components.
As semiconductor manufacturing advances toward smaller nodes—a critical aspect for artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous vehicles—the industry’s demand for helium is set to increase.
Currently, there are no viable alternatives that match helium’s efficiency, making its conservation and reclamation strategies more important than ever.
Helium as a cryogen in advanced technologies
Helium’s cryogenic properties, particularly its ability to reach temperatures close to absolute zero, make it essential for a range of advanced technologies.
It is indispensable in superconducting devices like MRI and NMR machines used in medical and chemical industries, particle accelerators like the Large Hadron Collider, and some nuclear fusion reactors.
In quantum computing, where temperatures between 10 millikelvin (mK) and 4 Kelvin (K) are required, helium is critical within cryostats.
Although MRI scanners have been the leading application for helium, advancements in hardware, software, and materials are beginning to reduce its demand.
For instance, sealed-for-life MRI designs and the use of high-temperature superconductors are paving the way for a more sustainable future in helium usage.
Expanding role in the aerospace industry
Helium is also pivotal in the aerospace industry, where it serves as an inert gas for purging hydrogen systems, pressurising fluid systems, and leak-testing components. Its role extends to precision welding and cooling aerospace components as a cryogen.
The last five years have seen a significant increase in orbital launches, driven largely by commercial enterprises.
This surge in activity has further cemented helium’s status as an indispensable resource within the aerospace sector.
According to IDTechEx, the demand for helium in aerospace is expected to continue growing, reflecting the industry’s expansion and the increasing complexity of space missions.
Trends in production and conservation
Despite helium’s critical importance, the market faces challenges due to the limited diversification of production and the geopolitical strains in helium-rich regions.
While countries like Qatar and Russia are expected to ramp up production, these efforts may not fully mitigate supply shortages or price volatility.
Interestingly, a growing number of independent players are exploring primary or ‘green’ helium from geological reserves, where it exists in non-hydrocarbon gases.
These efforts, combined with the adoption of low-capex separation systems such as membrane and pressure swing adsorption (PSA) technologies, are beginning to address some of the challenges in helium production and purification. However, the scalability and long-term viability of these solutions require further validation.
Outlook on helium demand
Historically, low helium prices have deterred significant investment in reclamation technologies and exploration.
However, the increasing likelihood of chronic supply shortages and rising prices are pushing industries to adopt helium conservation strategies. Companies are now more inclined to invest in reclamation technologies and explore alternative gases where possible.
Helium remains a cornerstone of technological advancement, playing a vital role in sectors ranging from healthcare to aerospace.
As helium demand continues to rise, driven by global trends in energy, digitalisation, and space exploration, the helium market is poised for significant transformation.
With new technologies and conservation strategies emerging, the future of helium promises both challenges and opportunities for industries worldwide.
