Helium is an essential gas with diverse applications, from medical imaging to space exploration. Helium gas is truly "lighter than air" because of its very low density, which accounts for its most popular application: decorative balloons. The gas is used in medical imaging machines. Also, it is used as a breathing gas for deep-sea diving, in welding processes, and in gas chromatography.

Helium was confirmed to exist on Earth in 1895, but it was first discovered in 1868 when French astronomer Pierre Janssen observed an unknown gas during a solar eclipse. The name "Helium" comes from Helios, the Greek god of the sun. The growing demand for helium has led to the emergence of several key players in the industry. In this blog, we'll explore the top 10 helium companies worldwide, highlighting their contributions and innovations.

1. Air Liquide SA

Air Liquide SA is a French multinational company specializing in gases, technologies, and services for industrial and medical applications. A leader in the helium market, Air Liquide operates numerous helium production and distribution facilities worldwide. The company emphasizes sustainable practices and has invested in new technologies to ensure a reliable helium supply. The company is present in 60 countries with 66,300 employees. The company produces and delivers gases in large quantities to major industrial basins like metallurgy, refining, energy, etc.

2. Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.

Based in the United States, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. is a global leader in hydrogen and helium supply. The company has established a significant presence in the helium market, with a robust network of production and distribution channels. Air Products is also focusing on innovative solutions to improve helium extraction and supply chain efficiency. The company has strengthened its environmental goals and goals for renewable energy and water management. The company uses worry-free bulk gas supply and delivery systems designed to meet customer needs.

3. Qatar Liquefied Gas Co. Ltd.

Qatar Liquefied Gas Co. Ltd. (Qatargas) is one of the world's largest producers of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and a key player in the helium market. Located in the world’s largest helium-rich gas field, Qatargas benefits from its strategic position, enabling it to supply helium efficiently. The company is committed to sustainable development and minimizing environmental impact.

4. Gazprom

Gazprom is a Russian multinational energy corporation primarily known for its significant role in the extraction, production, and distribution of natural gas. The company was founded in 1989 and is one of the world's largest producers of natural gas and plays a crucial role in the global energy market. The company operates in different parts of the world and follows the principles of sustainable development. The company has established its reputation based on international standards of corporate responsibility across all the countries where it operates.

While Gazprom is predominantly associated with natural gas, it also engages in various other activities, including oil production, power generation, and even helium extraction. Helium is a byproduct of natural gas production, and Gazprom has invested in facilities to extract and supply this gas, which is increasingly in demand for applications in technology, medicine, and various industrial processes.

The company's extensive pipeline network and storage facilities enable it to distribute helium efficiently, primarily to markets in Europe and Asia. Gazprom's commitment to diversifying its product offerings, including helium, highlights its strategic approach to meet the growing global demand for this essential gas.

5. Linde plc

Linde plc is a global industrial gas and engineering company formed from the merger of Linde AG and Praxair. Linde has a strong presence in the helium market, providing high-quality helium for various applications. The company's commitment to innovation and sustainability drives its efforts to enhance helium extraction and processing technologies. The company assists customers globally in enhancing their environmental performance and lowering their carbon footprint, while also dedicating itself to reducing its own environmental resource intensity. The company is a global company with operations spanning more than 80 countries. The company continuously works to improve its corporate governance process to better serve the interests of its partners, shareholders, customers and employees.

6. Messer SE & Co. KGaA

Messer SE & Co. KGaA is a family-owned industrial gas company based in Germany. It has a strong presence in the helium market, supplying gases for industrial and medical applications. Messer focuses on customer service and sustainability, investing in technologies that promote efficient helium production and delivery. Messer provides liquid helium in dewars of various sizes, ranging from 50 liters to those with capacities of up to 450 liters. For very large consumers, like equipment manufacturers or major research institutions, it can also supply tank containers that hold up to 40,000 liters. The U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management has approved Messer’s bid for the Federal Helium System, and the company will now proceed with the required regulatory reviews to acquire the assets.

7. Matheson Tri Gas Inc.

Matheson Tri Gas Inc., specializes in specialty gases, including helium. With a focus on the semiconductor and healthcare industries, Matheson provides high-purity helium and has established a strong distribution network across North America. Matheson has operations in over 300 locations in the U.S. The company has an employee base of over 4500. It also designs and manufactures gas purification systems and panels, and also helium recovery solutions. The company focuses on creating social value through innovative gas solutions 
that increase industrial productivity, enhance human well-being 
and contribute to a more sustainable future.

8. Gulf Cryo

Based in Kuwait, Gulf Cryo is a leading provider of industrial gases in the Middle East. The company has expanded its helium offerings significantly in recent years, catering to various sectors such as healthcare, aerospace, and electronics. Gulf Cryo is dedicated to sustainable practices and innovative gas solutions. The group consists of thirty companies in the MENA region and functions as a closed joint-stock company. It is regarded as a leader in the gas industry within the MENA region. Gulf Cryo has expanded its reach to multiple states and countries, now operating in 10 nations with a close-knit team of 1,200 employees. As one of the largest helium suppliers, Gulf Cryo meets the needs of various industries by transporting liquid helium in cylinders and tube trailers.

9. nexAir LLC

nexAir LLC, based in the United States, is a regional supplier of industrial gases, including helium. The company serves a diverse clientele across sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and research. The company focuses on customer-centric solutions and aims to enhance its helium supply capabilities through strategic partnerships. All nexAir gases are manufactured at its facilities that comply with United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations and are ISO 17025 certified.

10. Noble Helium Limited

Noble Helium Limited is an Australian company focused exclusively on helium exploration and production. With a strong emphasis on developing helium-rich natural gas fields, Noble Helium aims to capitalize on the increasing global demand for helium. The company’s innovative approach positions it as a promising player in the helium industry. Noble Helium’s innovative exploration techniques and commitment to sustainable practices distinguish it within the helium sector. By employing advanced geological surveying and data analysis, the company aims to maximize the efficiency and yield of its operations while minimizing environmental impact. This forward-thinking approach not only enhances its production capabilities but also aligns with global trends toward responsible resource management.

Pros and Cons of Helium:

Pros of Helium

1. Inertness:
• Helium is chemically inert, meaning it doesn’t react with other substances. This property of Helium makes it safe for use in several applications, such as cryogenics and as a lifting gas.
2. Low Density:
• Helium is much lighter than air, making it ideal for filling balloons and airships. The low density of the gas allows for greater buoyancy, which is important for applications like weather balloons.
3. Cryogenic Applications:
• Helium has a very low boiling point and is used as a cryogen in cooling superconducting magnets, such as those found in MRI machines and particle accelerators.
4. Non-flammable:
• Unlike hydrogen, helium is non-flammable, which makes it a safer alternative in many applications where a lifting gas is required. It is also used in oxygen cylinders. Also, it is non-toxic in nature.
5. Medical Uses:
• Helium is vital in medical technologies, particularly in MRI machines and other diagnostic imaging tools, due to its inert properties.
6. Industrial Applications:
• Used in various industries, including electronics manufacturing, welding, and as a protective atmosphere for certain chemical reactions.

Cons of Helium

1. Limited Supply:
• Helium is a finite resource, primarily extracted from natural gas deposits. This limited availability raises concerns about long-term supply sustainability.
2. Cost:
• The extraction and purification processes for helium can be expensive, leading to higher prices for consumers and industries reliant on this gas.
3. Environmental Concerns:
• The extraction of helium, particularly from natural gas, can have environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions and habitat disruption.
4. Non-renewable:
• Helium is not a renewable resource, and once released into the atmosphere, it eventually escapes into space. This means that once it's used, it cannot be reclaimed.
5. Potential for Misuse:
• One major misuse of Helium is in party balloons or recreational settings (e.g., inhalation to change voice), which can increase health risks, particularly if done irresponsibly.
6. Dependency on Specific Regions:

·         The concentration of helium reserves in a few countries (like the U.S. and Qatar) makes global helium supply vulnerable to geopolitical issues, trade restrictions, or local production problems.

According to TechSci Research report “Helium Market- Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028 Segmented By Type (Gaseous and Liquid), By Application (MRI & NMR, Semiconductors & Optic Fibers, Others), By End Use (Aerospace, Electrical & Electronics, Medical, Welding, Others), By Region and Competition,” Global Helium Market is anticipated to grow significantly through 2028 due to rise in demand for helium in the healthcare industry and in high-tech industries.

Factors Driving the Growth of Global Helium Market:

1.Increased Demand in High-Tech Industries

• Medical Applications: Helium is vital for MRI machines, which are used extensively in medical diagnostics. The growing demand from the healthcare sector and advancements in imaging technology are driving the helium consumption.
• Manufacturing of Electronics: Helium is used in the production of semiconductors and fiber optics, as it provides an inert atmosphere necessary for high-quality manufacturing. As the demand for electronic devices continues to increase, so does the need for helium.

2. Growth in Space Exploration

• The resurgence of interest in space exploration, including missions by both government agencies and private companies, is creating a higher demand for helium. It is used in rocket propulsion systems and for cooling superconducting magnets in various applications.

3. Expansion of the Energy Sector

• Helium is increasingly being extracted as a byproduct of natural gas production. The growth of the energy sector, especially in regions rich in natural gas, is enhancing helium supply. Additionally, the rise of renewable energy technologies often requires helium for various applications, further driving demand.

4. Limited Supply and Geopolitical Factors

• The global helium supply is concentrated in a few countries, primarily the United States, Qatar, and Algeria. Geopolitical tensions and the depletion of existing reserves are leading to supply constraints. This limited availability is prompting increased exploration and investment in helium extraction.

5. Technological Advancements

• Innovations in extraction and purification technologies are making it more feasible to recover helium from gas fields that were previously considered unviable. Improved methods are enhancing the efficiency of helium production and enabling access to new reserves.

6. Rising Industrial Applications

• Beyond medical and electronic uses, helium is finding applications in various industries, including cryogenics, welding, and chemical manufacturing. The growth of these sectors is contributing to increased helium consumption.

7. Environmental Considerations

• As industries seek to reduce their carbon footprints, helium’s inert properties make it an attractive alternative for various processes that require an inert gas. This trend is particularly notable in the food and beverage sector, where helium is used in packaging to preserve freshness.

8. Investment and Market Development

• There has been growing investment in helium exploration and production with companies and countries recognizing the long-term potential of this market. Public and private sector collaboration is fostering innovation and enhancing market infrastructure.

As these factors converge, the global helium market is positioned for substantial growth. The interplay between technological advancements, industrial demand, and geopolitical dynamics will continue to shape the landscape of helium supply and consumption in the coming years.

Conclusion

As the demand for helium continues to rise, these companies are at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the industry. Their commitment to improving extraction technologies and expanding production capabilities ensures that helium remains accessible for various critical applications worldwide. Whether in healthcare, technology, or research, these top 10 helium companies are shaping the future of this essential gas.