Critical Mineral

GermaniumGe · 32

Germanium sourcing for infrared optics, fiber preforms and satellite solar. Zinc-circuit feedstock and refined metal from allied refining partners.

Why it matters

Germanium is essential to fiber optic cable, infrared optics for thermal imaging and missile seekers, and satellite solar cells. It is recovered almost entirely as a zinc smelting byproduct, making supply unusually concentrated. Defense optics buyers are under hard pressure to qualify allied supply.

What we source

  • Zinc-circuit feedstock for allied refining partners
  • Germanium dioxide and refined metal on request

Where we source from

  • DRC and Belgium (Umicore-adjacent)
  • Central Asian polymetallic operators

Buyer profile

IR system manufacturers, satellite component primes, fiber optic preform producers, semiconductor wafer manufacturers.

Typical lot sizes

Kilogram quantities to a few MT. Pricing referenced to LME and Argus benchmarks.

Sourcing germanium?

Tell us the specification and volume you need. We will tell you honestly whether we can find it and what verification looks like for your situation.

Other critical minerals we source