A potential helium reservoir was discovered last week in Minnesota, providing hope for a future supply of the increasingly scarce noble gas. The discovery was made by Pulsar Helium Inc., a Canadian-based company while drilling deep beneath the forest floor of the state’s Iron Range. This comes at a crucial time as supplies of helium in the United States are dwindling.
Pulsar Helium announced on Thursday that their drilling team found gas concentrations of up to 12.4% at a depth of 2,200 feet at the Topaz Project drill site. This concentration is considered economically viable, with levels above 0.3% being desirable. The gas was measured on-site using a mass spectrometer, and samples will be sent to a specialized laboratory for further analysis.
The company’s president and CEO, Thomas Abraham-James, expressed his excitement over the discovery, calling it a “big day for helium exploration.” He also mentioned the significance of finding the gas in a new jurisdiction like Minnesota. He promised to keep the market updated as more results are received.
While helium is commonly known as a gas used to fill balloons and blimps, its applications extend far beyond that. It is also used in its liquid form as a coolant for MRI machines and in the production of semiconductors. The gas is also crucial in the defense industry, with applications in rocket engine testing and missile guidance systems.
According to the Compressed Gas Association, the U.S. government’s sale of its Federal Helium Reserve (FHR) could lead to severe disruptions in the country’s helium supply chain. The FHR, which spans across three states, currently provides 20% of the country’s helium supply. This makes the Minnesota discovery all the more significant, providing potential relief for the helium industry.
The Minnesota helium reservoir was initially found in 2011 by a company drilling for platinum and palladium. However, it was not explored further until now. The accidental discovery highlights the importance of continued exploration and investment in helium resources as the demand for the gas continues to rise.
While the discovery in Minnesota is a promising development, it is essential to note that helium reserves are not the solution to the ongoing shortage. Experts say that more alternative helium sources need to be explored and that conservation and recycling efforts must be prioritized.
The exploration and development of the Minnesota reservoir will take time and significant investment. Pulsar Helium plans to conduct further well tests and drill more boreholes to determine the extent and size of the reservoir. The company also acknowledges that there are potential challenges and uncertainties that come with exploring a new helium source.
In conclusion, the discovery of a potential helium reservoir in Minnesota brings hope for a future supply of the scarce gas. However, it is crucial to continue seeking alternative sources and implementing conservation efforts to address the ongoing shortage.
The exploration and development of the Minnesota reservoir will require time, investment, and careful planning, but it could provide much-needed relief for the helium industry.
