War in Gulf raises concern over helium supplies, critical for MRI machines, Pg4

Key Highlights:

• Disruption in global helium supply due to trade restrictions through the Strait of Hormuz is raising concerns about MRI costs and installations in India.
• Helium prices have almost doubled due to supply disruptions, particularly from Qatar, a major exporter.
• Liquid helium is essential for cooling superconducting magnets in MRI machines.
• Older, non-zero boil-off MRI systems are most vulnerable, consuming up to 600 litres of helium annually.
• Approximately 250 new MRI machines are installed in India each year, each requiring up to 1,500 litres of helium for initial setup.

Detailed Insights:

• The Strait of Hormuz trade restrictions have created a supply-demand imbalance, driving up helium prices, though a complete shortage hasn't occurred yet.
• Qatar is the world's third-largest exporter of natural gas and a significant source of helium, extracted through cryogenic distillation.
• MRI systems vary in helium consumption: helium-free systems are immune, zero boil-off require limited refills, and non-zero boil-off are the most vulnerable.
• Increased helium costs may lead to increased costs for patients, delays in MRI installations, and potential shutdowns of older machines.
• Of the 5,000 MRI machines in India, only 100-150 are helium-free, while 3,500 use zero boil-off technology, and 1,000 are older, high-consumption systems.
• Modern MRI systems with zero boil-off technology minimize helium loss, reducing the immediate risk for facilities using advanced systems.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Helium: A colorless, odorless, non-renewable gas with the lowest boiling point, used as a coolant for MRI machines.
• Cryogenic Distillation: A process used to extract helium from natural gas at extremely low temperatures.
• Superconducting Magnets: Powerful magnets within MRI machines that require cooling by liquid helium to function.