Over the years, helium gas technology has undergone a series of advancements, driving various scientific research and cutting-edge manufacturing processes. This non-renewable noble gas, derived from natural gas, possesses unique properties that make it invaluable in several sectors. In the recent past, the use of membrane technology has emerged as a key innovation in this field, offering a promising alternative for helium recovery and purification.
In scientific research and energy, helium plays an important role in cooling superconducting components needed for quantum computing and quantum communication. These types of applications signify the cooling abilities of the element and increase its demand in further developments which include how this finite resource is well utilized and manageddata
Membrane technology and modern purification methods addressing helium scarcity
For the past few years, researchers have continuously focused on improving extraction methods, revolutionizing purification processes, and promoting sustainability through recycling practices. These advancements basically aim to address the scarcity of helium, a finite resource essential for numerous applications. Membrane technology has come out as a beneficial method of helium extraction in the last few years. Scientifically, membranes are made from materials such as polybenzimidazole that exhibit selectivity and permeability rates. They enable efficient separation of helium from natural gas reserves while consuming less energy compared to traditional cryogenic processes. These membranes have the potential to withstand harsh operational conditions and offer greater performance, ensuring matchless durability and maximum recovery from natural gas.
Moreover, advancements in purification techniques have opened new aspects of maintaining high-quality standards of helium. Enhanced membrane materials and processes are essential in achieving high purity levels. These membranes offer superior permeability and selectivity, ensuring effective removal of impurities. On the other hand, modern quality management processes incorporate real-time monitoring systems to detect and maintain purity levels. These systems involve advanced sensors and analytical tools that measure and manage helium quality during processing. Providing these levels of purity is helpful for a wide range of applications including scientific research, medical treatment, and industrial production.
A look into helium recycling and sustainability practices
As helium is a limited resource, its recycling practices have gained huge prominence among researchers. They have started making efforts to capture helium from various industrial processes and repurposing it. This approach not only conserves natural gas but also plays a key role in reducing environmental impact. Sustainable practices also include developing supportive policies that encourage the conservation and efficient utilization of helium. Such initiatives are also essential for ensuring the long-term availability of this element for future generations.
The expanding role of helium across manufacturing, healthcare, and aerospace industries
Due to its unique properties such as low boiling point and inertness, helium is widely used across various sectors. In the manufacturing sector, helium is beneficial for producing semiconductors, ensuring the efficiency of processes that require an inert atmosphere. Germanium and silicon wafer production are a few instances that require helium significantly. This element is also used to produce optical fibers. It helps cool the fiber during the drawing process and prevents imperfections. In laser welding of metals, helium ensures greater precision and quality when joining advanced materials.
In the healthcare sector, this unique element is broadly used in medical imaging, especially in MRI scanners. In these devices, helium acts as a cooling agent for superconducting magnets, which are essential for the functioning of the machines. On the other hand, cryogenics in healthcare also relies heavily on helium, utilizing its extremely low temperature to preserve biological samples. Moreover, in respiratory medicines, helium-oxygen mixtures enhance airflow for patients with obstructed airways. It represents the importance of helium in critical medical interventions.
The application of helium also extends to the aerospace and space exploration domain. It is widely used as a pressurizing agent in rockets, ensuring fuel systems remain functional under extreme conditions. Similarly, in spacecraft, helium plays an important role in pressurizing propulsion systems. In addition, helium-cooled detectors and instruments are also needed for the precision of astronomical observations and space missions.
Such promising applications of this key element are expected to boost the growth of the helium market in the coming years. According to Allied Market Research, the industry is anticipated to rise at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2032.
U.S. Energy and Helix Exploration’s major acquisitions in 2024 driving helium production
In July 2024, U.S. Energy Corporation, a public oil and gas company announced its acquisition of Wavetech Helium Inc., a leading US-based energy corporation. With this agreement, the companies aim to promote the production of non-hydrocarbon helium across the nation, aligning with local, state, and federal legislation.
Similarly, in January 2024, Helix Exploration PLC, a helium exploration company acquired the Rudyard project, a helium exploration site to expand its portfolio of helium gas formation for various businesses.
Final words
The unique properties of helium make it indispensable for a wide range of real-world applications. Its scarcity on the Earth and growing demand for it across various sectors have paved the way for sustainable management of this valuable resource. Additionally, the emerging use cases of this element in the designing of superconductors and deep-sea exploration are expected to create ample opportunities for the industry in the future. Author’s Bio: Although belonging to an engineering stream, Rosy had a knack for writing throughout her student life. Her keen interest in creative compositions drove her to take up content writing professionally after graduation. For the last few years, she has been delivering impactful content, engaging and delighting readers, along with grabbing their attention.
Author’s Bio: Although belonging to an engineering stream, Rosy had a knack for writing throughout her student life. Her keen interest in creative compositions drove her to take up content writing professionally after graduation. For the last few years, she has been delivering impactful content, engaging and delighting readers, along with grabbing their attention.
