In a game-changing initiative set to revitalize the global scandium market, NioCorp Developments Ltd. (NB.T) has announced its intent to undertake commercial-scale production of aluminum-scandium (Al-Sc) master alloy in the United States. Marking a significant leap in the field of critical minerals, this initiative paves the way for unprecedented commercial and defence applications.
NioCorp’s plans to produce over 100 tonnes of scandium oxide per year, sourced from the proposed Elk Creek critical minerals project in southeast Nebraska, have the potential to establish the United States as a major scandium producer. This projection, however, hinges on the successful launch of the Al-Sc master alloy initiative, receipt of necessary funding, and other key considerations, as per the company’s CEO and Executive Chairman, Mark A Smith.
Pioneering a Greener, More Efficient Production Process
This revolutionary project is made possible through an exclusive agreement with Boston-based Nanoscale Powders LLC. By harnessing Nanoscale’s proprietary process, NioCorp aims to produce ingots of Al-Sc master alloy with significant scandium content. Notably, this novel technique promises enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional Al-Sc production methods.
Unleashing the Power of Scandium
The amalgamation of scandium into aluminum alloys culminates in a superlative alloy, boasting superior strength, reduced weight, and enhanced corrosion resistance. The versatility of the Al-Sc alloy opens up vast applications across sectors like automotive, mass transit systems, commercial aviation, space, and defence markets.
Moreover, Niocorp and Nanoscale are poised to revolutionize the industry standard by producing an Al-Sc master alloy containing up to 5% scandium, over double the current industry standard.
Path to Commercialization
The path to commercial production involves an initial demonstration of Nanoscale’s technology at a pilot scale using procured scandium feedstock. Subject to technological and economic feasibility, the companies aim to expand commercial production of Al-Sc master alloy before NioCorp begins producing scandium oxide at its Elk Creek project.
NioCorp is banking on the surge in demand for Al-Sc master alloy in commercial and defense markets. This demand has been historically stifled due to limited supply outside of China.
“Scandium is a game-changer for electric vehicles, mass transit systems, aerospace and defence platforms, and a host of other technologies,” said Mark A. Smith. “NioCorp’s plans could enable North America to become a leading scandium producer, putting Nebraska and the U.S. in a position of global leadership in the production of scandium and aluminum-scandium alloys.”
The move to a reliable, domestic source of Al-Sc master alloy is believed to be the catalyst for accelerating market adoption of scandium, especially when provided in a vertically integrated manner within the U.S.
Niocorp Developments Ltd. at the Forefront
Niocorp Developments Ltd. has its sights set on developing a critical minerals project in southeast Nebraska, aimed at producing niobium, scandium, and titanium. The company is also exploring potential production of several rare earths from this project.
The chemical composition of the Al-Sc master alloy is a remarkable balance of 2% scandium and 98% aluminum. This composition endows the alloy with strength, ductility, weld-ability, improved corrosion resistance, and lower density, making it exceptionally suited for aerospace applications.
The advantageous properties of scandium in aluminum alloys were first exploited in Russia during the cold war period. Today, apart from aerospace applications, Al-Sc alloys find use in windmill blades, sporting goods, and more. NioCorp’s initiative might soon see these benefits reaching broader sectors.
NioCorp Developments Ltd. is set to redefine the status quo in the production of Al-Sc alloys, promising significant implications for a variety of industries. The future of scandium production shines bright, and NioCorp is leading the charge.
The company currently trades at $7.33 CAD per share for a market cap of $222.41 million.
