With demand for diborane (B2H6, diborane) tight and expectations for increased demand, and as it is being discussed as a candidate material for new processes, a boom in new construction and expansion is taking place in Korea.

According to the semiconductor specialty gas industry, it has been reported that at least four domestic companies have recently entered the market for diborane (B2H6).

Diboran experienced supply and demand instability in the first half of the year due to increased factory utilization rates of semiconductor makers and limited supply from diboran producers.

Domestically, the product is supplied by companies such as Matheson Specialty Gases Korea, Air Liquide Solutions Korea, Versum Materials Korea, and Wonik Materials, and inventory levels were so tight that it sold out immediately upon production.

Diboran has maintained a balance of supply and demand by supplying according to the needs of major semiconductor companies, including domestic firms like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix as well as the U.S. company Micron; however, demand has recently increased as the semiconductor industry's operating rates have risen amidst a global semiconductor shortage.

Diborane is a key gas used in semiconductor and solar doping processes and is used as an in-situ doping material in various semiconductor blanket and stacking deposition processes. While arsine and phosphine are mainly used in n-type semiconductors, diborane is widely used in p-type semiconductors.

On the other hand, the semiconductor industry reported that diborane is highly likely to be used in other processes in the future, in addition to the doping process. Although the exact process has not been disclosed, it is being discussed as a material to be used in the new process.

Consequently, the market for Diboran is currently tight, and it is predicted that the shortage will continue in the future.

Accordingly, the industry anticipates that demand for Diboran will be two to three times higher than current levels, and it is reported that they are proceeding with expansion and new investments.

Meanwhile, diborane (B2H6) is a type of boran that is a colorless gas with a peculiar odor and is a highly toxic substance. It can be fatal if inhaled and can cause burns, so caution must be exercised when handling it.