Helium, the second most plentiful element in the universe, is in short
supply and this has sent prices – not balloons – soaring.
In the U.S., the Chicago Tribune recently reported that a standard helium tank big enough to blow up 400 average-sized balloons cost $40 five years ago, but has inflated to $88 today. The article stated that another 50 per cent price hike may soon occur.
Both shortfalls in world production and a rising demand for the gas has put pressure on the supply of helium. Helium is an important element in making flat-panel TVs, optical fibres, telecommunication cables, medical MRIs and is even used by NASA to keep space shuttles from overheating. Balloons account for only seven per cent of helium use.
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