Quartz Supply Crisis: Chip-Making Leaders React to Hurricane Helene's Impact
Thursday, 3 October 2024, 08:12
Quartz Supply Disruption and Its Implications
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the chip-making sector is on high alert regarding the supply of quartz, a critical component in semiconductor manufacturing. North Carolina's mines operated by Sibelco and Quartz Corp saw operations halted on September 26 due to severe flooding and damage.
Industry Reactions and Statements
- Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) and Infineon Technologies are actively assessing the situation.
- South Korea's Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix report no immediate concerns.
- GlobalWafers assures stable supply chains despite temporary disruptions.
The Importance of Quartz Supply
Quartz accounts for more than 80% of the world’s output of commercial high-purity quartz. The Spruce Pine area is critical for production, delivering around 20,000 tons annually, crucial for both solar and chip-making industries.
Future Outlook
- Both mines are under review for their ability to resume operations.
- Industry experts believe that synthetic alternatives may gain traction if disruptions are prolonged.
- The resilience of the semiconductor supply chain is expected to mitigate severe impacts.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.