Gallium is a silvery-white metal that is commonly used in semiconductors, LEDs, and other electronic applications. It has unique properties that make it an essential component in various industries, which is why understanding its cost is essential.
If you are a buyer or a seller of gallium, you need to know its current market price to make informed decisions. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the cost of gallium, factors influencing its price, and where to buy it. Keep reading to learn more.
What is Gallium?
Gallium is a chemical element with the symbol Ga and atomic number 31. It is a soft, silvery-white metal that is found in nature in small amounts. It’s most commonly obtained as a byproduct of aluminum and zinc production. Gallium has a low melting point and can turn from solid to liquid state when held in the palm of your hand, making it a unique element.
The Cost of Gallium
The cost of gallium fluctuates due to various factors, such as supply and demand, production costs, and geopolitical events. Additionally, several grades and forms of gallium exist in the market, and each has a different price point.
High Purity Gallium
High purity gallium is up to 99.9999% pure and is the most expensive form of gallium. Its purity makes it ideal for electronic applications, such as LEDs, semiconductors, and photovoltaics. The current market price for high purity gallium ranges from $300 to $600 per kilogram.
99.99% Pure Gallium
99.99% pure gallium, also known as technical or commercial-grade gallium, has a purity level of 99.99%. It costs less than high purity gallium and is commonly used in the production of coatings, mirrors, and other industrial applications. The current market price for 99.99% pure gallium ranges from $200 to $300 per kilogram.
99.99% Pure Gallium Shot
Gallium shot is a small pellet of high purity gallium that is used in specific applications, such as the production of metal alloys, thermometers, and radiation detectors. The current market price for 99.99% pure gallium shot ranges from $10 to $30 per gram.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Gallium
Several factors influence the cost of gallium. They include:
Supply and Demand
The supply and demand for gallium determine its price in the market. If demand exceeds supply, the price of gallium increases. Conversely, if supply exceeds demand, the price of gallium decreases. The electronics industry is the largest consumer of gallium, and any increase in demand from this sector can drive up the price.
Production Costs
The cost of producing gallium significantly influences its market price. Gallium is obtained as a byproduct of aluminum and zinc production, so any changes in the cost of producing these metals will affect the price of gallium.
Geopolitical Events
Geopolitical events, such as trade restrictions, import tariffs, or political instability, can significantly impact the cost of gallium. They can disrupt the supply chain and cause a shortage of gallium, leading to an increase in price.
Where to Buy Gallium
Gallium can be purchased from various suppliers, including:
Chemical Suppliers
Chemical suppliers offer high purity and commercial-grade gallium in various forms, including shot, ingots, wire, and foil. Some of the popular suppliers include Sigma-Aldrich, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and American Elements.
Metal Suppliers
Metal suppliers offer gallium in bulk, primarily in the form of ingots. Some of the popular suppliers include Rotometals and Belmont Metals.
Online Retailers
Online retailers offer gallium in various forms and grades, and you can purchase it in small quantities. Some of the popular online retailers include GalliumSource, GalliumIndiumTin.com, and Luciteria.
FAQs
- What are the common applications of gallium?
- Gallium is commonly used in the electronics industry for the production of semiconductors, LEDs, and photovoltaics. It is also used in the production of mirrors, coatings, and metal alloys, among others.
- How is gallium priced in the market?
- The price of gallium is influenced by supply and demand, production costs, and geopolitical events. Different forms and grades of gallium have different price points, with high purity gallium being the most expensive.
- What are the factors influencing the cost of gallium?
- Supply and demand, production costs, and geopolitical events influence the cost of gallium in the market. Any changes in these factors can lead to an increase or decrease in its price.
- Where can I buy gallium?
- Gallium can be purchased from chemical suppliers, metal suppliers, and online retailers in various forms and grades.
- What is the current price of gallium?
- Gallium’s price fluctuates due to several factors, so its current market price varies. As of August 2021, high purity gallium is priced between $300 and $600 per kilogram, while commercial-grade gallium is priced between $200 and $300 per kilogram.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of gallium is critical for buyers and sellers in various industries. Gallium’s price varies due to several factors, including supply and demand, production costs, and geopolitical events. Its unique properties make it an essential component in electronic and industrial applications. Gallium can be purchased from chemical suppliers, metal suppliers, and online retailers in various grades and forms.
References
- Gallium Source. (n.d.). Gallium price.
- Rotometals. (n.d.). Gallium.
- Thermo Fisher Scientific. (n.d.). Gallium.
- Worldometers. (n.d.). Chemical elements, gallium.