Anyone know how long it will take to re-start Qatar's helium plants?

The helium shortage for the world outside the US is going to be debilitating for technology oriented production. Since the US produces most of the worlds helium, it actually acts as a counter measure to our reliance on rare earths. Globally, helium has been in short supply for over a decade. Taking out the supply from Qatar is going to disrupt production of chipsets quickly. Anyone know how long it will take to re-start Qatar's helium plants?

8 points | by megamike 17 hours ago

4 comments

  • lapalapa 27 minutes ago
    We'll see, the war is not yet over. Maybe years.
  • giantg2 6 hours ago
    Extensive damage resulting in years to repair and replace, resulting in a 14% reduction in exports (a 5% reduction in global supply). Other shutdown is variable, based on the conflict.
  • cochinescu 9 hours ago
    It really depends on what exactly shut them down, if it’s just logistics around the blockade, things could resume in weeks once borders open. Physical damages or equipment being offline might mean months, maybe longer. Has there been any recent update from RasGas or Qatargas?
  • JasonADrury 15 hours ago
    Nobody knows. If Trump follows through with his latest threat, the answer could feasibly turn out to be "decades".