High-purity CO2 used in advanced semiconductor processes is showing early supply stress, with a Citrini analyst, jukan, saying lower operating rates at refineries and petrochemical plants have reduced feedstock output. Samsung Electronics uses about 1,800-2,000 tons a month and SK Hynix 600-700 tons, underscoring the scale of demand from major memory chipmakers. No production disruptions have occurred, but inventories are reportedly below one month and the tight market may persist through year-end.