Woofun AI notes that early warning signals have emerged in high-purity carbon dioxide procurement for advanced semiconductor manufacturing, driven by reduced feedstock production from lower operating rates at oil refineries and petrochemical plants. While industry participants typically maintain two weeks of inventory each, totaling approximately one month of supply, current levels have reportedly fallen below this threshold.

Samsung Electronics consumes roughly 1,800 to 2,000 tons monthly, while SK Hynix uses about 600 to 700 tons. Although neither company has reported production disruptions, inventory buffers are shrinking. Both firms are intensifying procurement efforts, yet securing additional supply remains difficult despite higher prices. Liquefied CO2 prices have increased approximately 20% since the start of the year, with supply constraints expected to persist through year-end. Major suppliers include Taekyung Chemical, Sundo Chemical, Dongkwang Chemical, and SK Air Plus.