scandiums

Scandium (symbol Sc) is a chemical element with atomic number 21. It is a light, silvery-white transition metal that is relatively rare in Earth’s crust. In pure form it is soft and moderately reactive, developing a protective oxide layer. The most common oxidation state in its compounds is +3. Typical properties include a density of about 2.98 g/cm3, a melting point near 1,541°C, and a boiling point around 2,835°C.

Scandium occurs only in trace amounts and is not mined as a stand-alone ore. The principal ore minerals include thortveitite (Sc2Si2O7). Most commercial scandium is recovered as a byproduct during the processing of other mineral resources or from REE- bearing ores, then refined to scandium oxide or metal. Its production is small compared with most elements, which keeps costs relatively high.

Applications rely on its ability to strengthen aluminum alloys with small additions. Aluminum–scandium alloys exhibit high strength and good creep resistance, making them attractive for aerospace components and high-performance sporting goods. Scandium compounds have also been explored as catalysts and dopants in specialty lighting and electronics, but cost has limited widespread use.

Isotopes: 45Sc is the only stable isotope; many other isotopes are radioactive with short half-lives and are produced in laboratories for research. There is currently no known essential biological role for scandium.

History: Scandium was discovered spectroscopically in 1879 by Swedish chemist Lars Gustaf Nilson and named after Scandinavia. Its isolation followed later as methods for separating it from other elements improved. The name reflects its geographic origin rather than any terrestrial abundance.