US adds helium to critical materials list over chipmaking needs

The US Department of Energy has designated helium a critical material for the US economy. The decision, announced on 23 October, reflects the essential role of the gas in semiconductor manufacturing and increasing supply-chain risks.

The department says helium has unique properties and no suitable substitute for several important manufacturing applications. In addition to microchip production, it is used in high-tech equipment and the energy sector.

US officials point to a gap between growing demand and production and processing capacity. According to the department, limited purification capacity and lengthy permitting procedures hinder supply expansion despite domestic deposits.

Designation as a critical material reflects economic importance and supply risks. It does not mean that helium is a newly discovered element or that an immediate shortage is expected everywhere. Associated Press notes that the status could give producers access to federal financing and increase oversight of supplies.

The decision highlights how the global technology industry depends not only on silicon and rare metals, but also on industrial gases used at different stages of complex electronics manufacturing.

Sources: US Department of Energy, 23 October 2026; Associated Press, 23 October 2026.

Photo: illustrative image of a silicon wafer with microchips, not an image of helium. Credit: Laura Ockel / Unsplash, Unsplash License.