High-purity CO2 supply shortage prompts Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix to increase procurement efforts

According to Critini Research analyst Jukan, citing industry sources, the supply of high-purity CO2 required for advanced semiconductor processes is under strain due to a reduction in upstream raw material output. Samsung Electronics consumes 1,800 to 2,000 tons per month, while SK Hynix uses 600 to 700 tons per month, and the industry's current inventory has now fallen below the one-month warning threshold. The price of liquefied CO2 has risen by about 20% since the beginning of the year. Suppliers such as Taekyung Chemical, Sundo Chemical, Dongkwang Chemical, and SK Air Plus are facing supply pressures. The situation in the Middle East has led to decreased operating rates at petrochemical plants, affecting the supply of CO2 feedstock produced as a byproduct.