Scandium Canada Ltd, an advanced materials company focused on scandium alloys, has reported new data showing that its scandium-modified AA535 and AA7075 alloys deliver an economically viable technological advancement in the field of aluminium-scandium (Al-Sc) alloys for additive manufacturing. The findings, based on laser powder-bed fusion (L-PBF) printed samples, demonstrate that the alloys significantly reduce cracking in high-strength aluminium – a major barrier in metal 3D printing.
The company highlighted that these alloys unlock a path towards lightweight, high-performance, and cost-effective components for aerospace, automotive, and advanced engineering. “Scandium Canada’s proprietary alloys directly address the critical need for printable, high-strength, and lightweight metals in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing,” said Dr Luc Duchesne, Head of Scandium+ and Chief Science Officer.
Strengthening intellectual property portfolio
This breakthrough builds on a provisional patent filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in September 2024 for alloy powders tailored to additive manufacturing. The patent “Aluminium Alloy Powders for Additive Manufacturing: Methods of Producing the Same and Uses Thereof” marked an earlier milestone in Scandium Canada’s IP expansion.
Also read: Innovative aluminium-scandium alloys for 3D printing: Scandium Canada Ltd. moves forward with patent
More recently, on 17 September 2025, the company secured an international patent application under the PCT, strengthening its protection and commercial readiness. Both steps underline a long-term strategy of building a competitive edge in high-value materials.
Scandium+ commercialisation drive
The company has also established Scandium+, a dedicated division to accelerate market adoption. Its goals include deploying scandium where demand is strongest and advancing alloys such as AA7075/Sc/Zr and AA535/Sc/Zr/Ce. Notably, the alloys reduce scandium requirements without compromising strength, improving sustainability and lowering costs – crucial for scaling 3D printing applications.
Mechanical tests show tensile strengths of 330–380 MPa in the as-built state, rising by up to 25 per cent after heat treatment, achieving relative densities above 99%, indicating excellent print quality and industrial reliability.
With a study under way with Productique Quebec to identify near-term commercial opportunities across more than 140 potential applications, Scandium Canada is positioning itself as a front-runner in advanced alloys. Its work with McMaster University reinforces Canada’s reputation in materials innovation.
Also read: Rusal starts producing aluminium-scandium master alloys at its Krasnoyarsk Aluminium Smelter
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