November 21, 2012 – Sales of electronic gases are seen growing a modest 3.2% growth overall in 2012, following a 15% increase in 2011 to $3.1B, according to an updated report from Techcet Group.
The electronic specialty gases segment leads the way with 5.0% growth to $2.1B and bulk gases flat at $1.1B. Growth is expected to continue at this rate into 2013 to $3.5B. The 2011 market for electronic gases totaled $3.1B, up 15% from the prior year.
The introduction of new device structures at 22nm and below is providing some new growth opportunities for the specialty gases market. However, many of these emerging applications will turn to liquid chemical precursors for high volume manufacturing. Specialty gases are therefore expected to grow at only single-digit rates over the next several years. The industry move to 450mm wafers will likely provide an increase in gas and chemical consumption that is closer to 3.0× per wafer than the 2.5× that is widely reported.
In bulk gases, Air Products and Air Liquide share the market lead with 28% share each. In specialty gases, Air Products has a comfortable seven-point lead over Air Liquide, though each has more than a 20% share. Praxair, Linde, TNSC, and OCI round out the other global marketshare leaders.
The report discusses the global issues that are affecting the market dynamics and supply chain stability for He and anhydrous HCl. Other focus topics include SiH4, NF3, and WF6. The outlook for future gas usage as shaped by environmental concerns, legislative changes, and geopolitical issues is also discussed.