Scandium Oxide, Scandium Trioxide, Scandium Sesquioxide, Skandia, Scandia, 12060-08-1

Scandium Oxide, Scandium Trioxide, Scandium Sesquioxide, Skandia, Scandia, 12060-08-1

SCANDIUM OXIDE (SC₂O₃)
SCANDIUM OXIDE / SCANDIA / SCANDIUM TRIOXIDE / SCANDIUM SESQUIOXIDE
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Scandium oxide is the oxide compound of the rare earth element scandium. Scandium ions (Sc³⁺) and oxide ions (O²⁻) are present in a 2:3 ratio. It has a cubic crystal structure (bixbyite type; space group Ia3). It is known for its high thermal stability, good chemical inertness, and suitable dielectric properties. It is insoluble in water but soluble in concentrated acid solutions.

Structural Features:

                    SCANDIUM OXIDE [Sc₂O₃]
                          |
                Sc³⁺ - O²⁻ Ionic Bonds
                          |
        +----------------+----------------+
        |                |                |
    Cubic (Bixbyite)   White Powder     High Thermal
    Crystal Structure                   Stability

2.2. Structural Properties

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

4. PURITY GRADES

5. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

5.1. Chemical Reactions

• Reaction with Acids:
  Sc₂O₃ + 6HCl → 2ScCl₃ + 3H₂O
  Sc₂O₃ + 6HNO₃ → 2Sc(NO₃)₃ + 3H₂O
  Sc₂O₃ + 3H₂SO₄ → Sc₂(SO₄)₃ + 3H₂O

• Carbonation (Over Time):
  Sc₂O₃ + 3CO₂ + 3H₂O → Sc₂(CO₃)₃·3H₂O (slow)

6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Advanced Ceramics

6.2. Electronics and Dielectrics

6.3. Alloys

6.4. Optics and Coatings

6.5. Chemical Intermediate

6.6. Sectoral Suitability Table

7. PRODUCTION PROCESS

7.1. Major Producing Countries

8. ALTERNATIVE / SUBSTITUTE PRODUCTS

9. SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGY

9.1. GHS Classification

Signal Word: WARNING

Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark)

10. PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

11. FIRST AID MEASURES

12. STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

13. PACKAGING OPTIONS

14. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

15. REGULATORY STATUS

16. OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

17. QUICK REFERENCE TABLE

18. CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

• High Value and Critical Importance: Scandium is a critical and valuable rare earth element for electronic, ceramic, and alloy applications. Losses should be minimized and recycling options explored.

• High Purity Requirement: Electronic, optical, and alloy applications require high purity (>99.9%). Purity level directly affects application performance.

• Storage Conditions: Storage under inert atmosphere (nitrogen/argon) at 2-8°C is recommended; surface hydroxylation and carbonate formation with moisture and CO₂ should be prevented.

• Alloy Applications: Scandium provides micrograin control and mechanical property improvement in aluminum and magnesium alloys; Sc₂O₃ is used as a precursor.

• Powder Hazard: Fine powder form may cause respiratory tract irritation. Dust control measures must be taken.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Storage:

  • Store under inert atmosphere (nitrogen/argon) at 2-8°C, in dry and closed containers.

  • Use moisture barrier, tightly closed containers.

  • Keep away from acids and oxidizing agents.

• Handling:

  • Use in well-ventilated areas with local exhaust ventilation.

  • Use a dust mask (FFP2/FFP3 for nano/submicron), protective goggles, and gloves.

  • Avoid dust formation and inhalation.

  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

  • For dissolution in acids, add oxide to acid slowly with cooling and stirring.

• Waste Management:

  • Dispose of in accordance with local regulations.

  • Do not discharge into water sources.

  • For large quantities, rare earth recycling and recovery should be considered (economically viable).

LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and has been prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific applications and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, disposal, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. This document does not substitute professional advice. Scandium oxide is a critical rare earth material for electronic, ceramic, and alloy applications; careful handling, storage, and recycling planning are required due to high purity requirements and value.