Citrini analyst: Warning signs emerge in semiconductor high-purity CO2 procurement

Odaily Odaily Planet Daily News Citrini analyst jukan posted on platform X, stating that warning signals have emerged in the procurement of high-purity carbon dioxide (CO2) used in advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes, due to a significant reduction in raw material CO2 production caused by declining operating rates at oil refineries and petrochemical plants.

Semiconductor manufacturers and suppliers typically each hold about two weeks' worth of inventory, totaling approximately one month's supply. However, the industry recently believes inventories have dropped below one month. Samsung Electronics uses approximately 1,800 to 2,000 tons of high-purity CO2 per month, while SK Hynix uses about 600 to 700 tons per month. Currently, Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix have not experienced production disruptions, but inventory margins continue to shrink. Both companies are strengthening procurement efforts, yet securing additional supply remains difficult even at higher prices.

The price of liquefied CO2 has risen about 20% compared to the beginning of the year, and the industry believes the supply tightness is likely to persist through year-end. Major domestic high-purity CO2 suppliers include Taekyung Chemical, Sundo Chemical, Dongkwang Chemical, and SK Air Plus, with Taekyung Chemical considered the leading company.