Indium shortage implications for the PV and LCD market: Technology and market considerations for maintaining growth

Indium is increasingly being used as a key material in the solar cell industry and in the TFT LCD industry. The demand for Indium was 1000 metric tons in 2007 for the solar industry with TFT LCD consuming another 500 tons. Given the development of both industries, the demand has been projected to reach >2500 tons by 2011. With the accelerating growth in solar, and the demand from consumer applications the question of availability is relevant and there are indications of impending shortages. According to the most recent assessment from the USGS (U.S Geological Survey), the world wide Indium supply could deplete in 10 years. The implications would be significant for all applications and in particular for the solar sector where cost reduction is critical. To prevent this shortage we must adopt ways to recycle electronic components containing Indium. These recycling efforts are only in their infancy and are pursued outside of the US. However, with the natural supply and with a deliberate effort to expand recycling, there should be adequate supply of cost-effective Indium to meet the anticipated needs. Recycling is necessary for two reasons: to provide a consistent flow and to help stabilize prices with the cycles of market demand and production capacity.