The purpose of the book is to inform the reader as to the future for Helium: a most unusual substance of significant high technology relevance and key natural resource. The frame of reference is international and not just American: helium is globalizing
Commercial helium is a by-product of the natural gas industry. The relationship of helium supply to natural gas is fundamental and has not been studied extensively in the past. The global natural gas industry is part way through a profound change with increasing emphasis on liquefied natural gas. This has major consequences for helium supply.
The authors turn their attention to helium supply and demand; most helium studies having previously been excessively focused on the supply-side. Chapters study the potential impact of helium in a number of fields, including medical imaging and the nuclear industry, as well its influence in major national economies such as Russia and India.