Tantalum takes a hit on declining electronics demand. (Specialties).(Demand of prices fell dramatically last year)(Statistical Data Included)

Chemical Market Reporter, February, 2002 by Lerner, Ivan

HIT HARD BY the downturn in the electronics market, tantalum demand and prices fell dramatically last year. In the fourth quarter, prices plummeted to $30 to $50 per pound, down from January 2001 price levels of $145 to $300 per pound. Tantalum's predominant use, more than 60 percent, is in tantalum capacitors, which are used in portable telephones, pagers, personal computers and automotive electronics. Declining demand in those markets and oversupply were the major culprits behind the product's poor performance. Despite the current economic gloom, at least one producer is moving forward with an acquisition, as producers and refiners wait for fortunes to improve.

The latest move in the tantalum market was late last month by Boston, Mass.-based Cabot Corp.,...

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