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The global market for germanium is currently experiencing a period of significant volatility and a supply crunch, primarily driven by a combination of geopolitical factors and increasing demand from high-tech industries.

The most significant cause of the current germanium shortage is China's implementation of export restrictions. China is the dominant global producer of refined germanium, accounting for a vast majority of the world's supply (estimated at 82% in early 2025). In a tit-for-tat response to U.S. restrictions on semiconductor technology exports, China announced and then escalated export controls on germanium and gallium. This has created a bottleneck in the global supply chain, causing a sharp decline in exports to countries like the United States.

Limited Production and Processing Capacity Outside of China: Germanium is not a rare element, but it is primarily produced as a byproduct of zinc mining or from the burning of coal. The complex and costly refining process required to achieve the high purity (99.999%) needed for commercial applications is a major constraint. Historically, the U.S. and other Western nations had refining capacity, but this was largely driven out of business by China's ability to offer finished products at lower costs, sometimes through subsidized operations. This has left the U.S. and its allies highly dependent on Chinese supply.


The germanium shortage is having a ripple effect across several critical sectors:

Defense and Aerospace: Germanium is a vital component in infrared (IR) optics, thermal imaging systems, and satellite solar cells. These are essential for military applications, including night vision equipment, targeting systems for fighter jets, and powering space-based assets. U.S. defense firms have reported running down their "safety stock" of the material, highlighting the vulnerability of the supply chain.

Telecommunications: Germanium is crucial for the production of optical fibers used in high-speed data transmission and the global rollout of 5G networks. The shortage could impede the expansion and maintenance of telecommunications infrastructure, leading to delays and increased costs.

Electronics and Semiconductors: While the quantities of germanium used in semiconductor manufacturing are relatively small, it is an irreplaceable dopant in certain high-performance semiconductors. A lack of supply can cause production delays and drive up the cost of various electronic products, from smartphones to cameras.

Renewable Energy: Germanium is used in high-efficiency multi-junction solar cells, particularly for space applications. The growing global investment in solar power and the deployment of satellite constellations are increasing demand, making the shortage a concern for the clean energy sector.

Underinvestment in Domestic Supply Chains: The financial risk associated with establishing a domestic germanium supply chain is a significant deterrent for private investment. China's past behavior of flooding the market to drive down prices makes it difficult for new producers to secure long-term profitability. This lack of investment has prevented the development of new mines and refining facilities to counter the current supply issues.

The future of the germanium supply is complex and uncertain:

  • Price Volatility: Germanium prices have seen a dramatic increase, more than tripling since 2018. The price has surged over 100% since the beginning of 2024 alone. Prices are expected to remain high and volatile as supply chains adjust.

Diversification Efforts: Western countries are actively seeking to reduce their dependence on China. Companies like Canada's Teck Resources are in talks with the U.S. and Canadian governments to increase germanium output as a byproduct of their zinc operations. Governments are also exploring recycling programs and providing funding to develop domestic extraction and refining capabilities.

Long-Term Challenges: Building a new germanium supply chain from mining to refining is a long and expensive process that will take years to come to fruition. Even with government support, the industry faces the challenge of price manipulation by China.

Recycling and Innovation: The recycling of germanium from end-of-life products, such as decommissioned military equipment, is becoming increasingly important. Research is also ongoing to find alternative materials and to develop new technologies that use germanium more efficiently.

House Marked color coded bands /Black/Brown/Red/ Printed ITT logo on glass DO-7.
Vf is in the .28-.30 range.

1N34A GERMANIUM GOLD BONDED DIODES RATED BEST GE DIODE BY CUSTOMER SATISFACTION.
THOUSANDS OF THESE GERMANIUM DIODES HAVE BEEN SOLD.
PEDAL BUILDERS
DIY'ERS
HOBBYISTS
AMATEUR RADIO ENTHUSIASTS
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R&D

GUARANTEED 100%

Procured in the U.S.A.

Genuine 
Original
New Old Stock

ITT / BKC, Now Microsemi GOLD BONDED GERMANIUM DIODE

Mfr: ITT / BKC, Now Microsemi
Part: 1N34A
Quantity: 6 Pieces ( 1 LOT OF SIX PIECES)

Printed: ITT, color coded Black Brown Red bands (1N34A)

All Orders Ship With Tracking Number

BKC International Electronics was founded in 1985 by three former ITT Semiconductor Employees, who purchased the germanium diode line and hi-rel test lab from ITT in 1985 and began operations in 1986. The Company produces a wide range of high-reliability discrete semiconductors, including small signal switching diodes, zener diodes, rectifiers, and germanium diodes.
By February 1, 1986, BKC had received certification from DESC to operate its MIL-S-19500 test lab and also was granted JAN qualification on the germanium device types approved and manufactured by ITT. In November 1986, BKC announced the purchase of the silicon wafer fab facility from ITT. The purchase included all the equipment, process, and quality specifications and procedures necessary to produce JAN, JANTX, and JANTXV switching diodes and zener diodes. Final approval from DESC was granted April 29, 1987.
To date, the Company has raised $2.5 million in financing through bank loans and the private sale of common stock. BKC conducts operations in an 80,000 square foot plant in Lawrence, Massachusetts, which houses design, wafer fab, assembly and test operations.

Microsemi Acquires BKC Semiconductors
On May 15, 1998, Microsemi acquired semiconductors company BKC Semiconductors.
Date     1998-05-15
Target     BKC Semiconductors
Sector     Semiconductors
Buyer(s)     Microsemi
Deal Type     Merger


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