Helium seems like a problematically non-renewable resource.
It is currently separated out from mined natural gas, but unlike natural gas, which if we run out, we can turn to other sources of energy, there are no alternatives to helium.
More helium cannot be produced (in useful quantities, alpha decay of radioactive substances is too difficult) by artificial means.
Helium, being a tiny single atom that can wriggle through the tiniest of gaps, is difficult to reclaim after use, and is difficult to store or seal when in use. Once it leaks into the atmosphere, it floats away into space, escaping earth's gravity (I think). Almost every other element at least stays on earth as waste. The impossibility of perfect seals means that everything that uses helium, most commonly cryogenic applications, will keep needing more helium.
Hard drives have helium in them.
Does the market price of helium reflect these future difficulties? Is market failure happening?
No comments :
Post a Comment