Memory makers brace for hydrogen fluoride pricing shock as Hormuz blockade impacts supply chain — key etching and cleaning material faces sharp cost increase amid trade disruption
The ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is causing significant disruptions in the supply chain for anhydrous hydrogen fluoride, a crucial material for memory chip manufacturing. South Korean memory makers are expected to face sharp price increases as chemical companies begin passing on their rising costs. This situation echoes previous supply challenges that have impacted the semiconductor industry.
- ▪The war in Iran has reduced critical supplies of materials needed for anhydrous hydrogen fluoride production.
- ▪China, the largest exporter of anhydrous hydrogen fluoride, has restricted exports due to rising domestic demand for sulfuric acid.
- ▪South Korean chemical companies are set to pass on increased costs to memory makers by early July.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Tech Industry Memory makers brace for hydrogen fluoride pricing shock as Hormuz blockade impacts supply chain — key etching and cleaning material faces sharp cost increase amid trade disruption MEMBER EXCLUSIVE News Analysis By Jon Martindale published 20 May 2026 Chemical companies have absorbed costs so far this year, but they're about to dump them onto South Korean memory makers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Tom's Hardware.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Tom's Hardware
