Scandium Nitrate, Scandium Trinitrate, Scandium Nitrate Hydrate, 13465‑60‑6

Scandium Nitrate, Scandium Trinitrate, Scandium Nitrate Hydrate, 13465‑60‑6

SCANDIUM(III) NITRATE (HYDRATE) 

Chemical Name: Scandium(III) Nitrate / Scandium Trinitrate
CAS Number: 13465-60-6
EC Number: 236-809-4
HS Code: 283429

1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND EXPLANATION

Chemical Structure and Bonding:

Scandium(III) Nitrate is an ionic compound composed of one Scandium (Sc³⁺) cation and three Nitrate (NO₃⁻) anions. Scandium is in the +3 oxidation state (trivalent) in this compound. The molecule contains a variable number of water molecules of crystallization (typically 4-6 molecules, depending on the specific hydrate form). As a rare earth-like metal, scandium exhibits similar chemical behavior to other trivalent rare earth elements.

Molecular Formula Representation:

Sc(NO₃)₃·xH₂O (typically Sc(NO₃)₃·4H₂O or Sc(NO₃)₃·6H₂O)

This formula indicates the following structure:

• 1 Scandium ion (Sc³⁺): Central metal atom.

• 3 Nitrate groups (NO₃⁻): Trigonal planar anions.

• x Water molecules (H₂O): Water of crystallization bound to the crystal lattice (variable).

Crystal Structure and Ionic Arrangement:

In the crystal structure, the Sc³⁺ ion is coordinated by oxygen atoms from nitrate groups and water molecules. Due to scandium's relatively small ionic radius (compared to lanthanides), it typically exhibits lower coordination numbers (6-8). Nitrate ions act as bridges between scandium centers. The water molecules are part of the crystal structure and impart specific thermal stability and solubility characteristics to the compound. Upon heating, these water molecules are sequentially removed (dehydration), eventually forming the anhydrous form.

Simplified Ionic Representation:

        Sc³⁺   NO₃⁻   H₂O
          \     /       /
           Sc(NO₃)₃ · xH₂O
          /     \       \
        NO₃⁻   NO₃⁻   H₂O

(An ionic crystal lattice composed of 1 Sc³⁺ ion, 3 NO₃⁻ ions, and x water molecules)

Structural Properties:

Dehydration (Loss of Water upon Heating):

Scandium Nitrate Hydrate loses water sequentially when heated:

Sc(NO₃)₃·xH₂O → Sc(NO₃)₃·yH₂O → Sc(NO₃)₃ (anhydrous)

At higher temperatures, the nitrate groups decompose to form scandium oxide (Sc₂O₃) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Important Physical Notes:

• Scandium Nitrate is highly hygroscopic and rapidly absorbs moisture from the air, requiring special packaging and storage conditions.

• It has a low melting point (~60°C); when heated, it dissolves in its own water of crystallization, forming a clear liquid.

• It has high solubility in water and ethanol, making it suitable for various applications.

• It exhibits oxidizing properties due to nitrate ions. Contact with organic materials should be avoided.

• The exact hydration state (xH₂O) can vary depending on the preparation method and storage conditions.

• High purity grades (≥ 99.9%) are available.

4. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIONS

Important Reactions:

1. Thermal Decomposition:

This reaction is the primary method used for producing scandium oxide.

First, dehydration:
Sc(NO₃)₃·xH₂O → Sc(NO₃)₃ + xH₂O (approximately 60-200°C)

Then, thermal decomposition:
4 Sc(NO₃)₃ → 2 Sc₂O₃ + 12 NO₂ + 3 O₂ (high temperature, >600°C)

2. Reaction with Bases (Precipitation):

Scandium hydroxide precipitates, which can be used as an intermediate in scandium oxide production.

Sc(NO₃)₃ + 3 NaOH → Sc(OH)₃ ↓ + 3 NaNO₃

3. Dissolution and Hydrolysis in Water:

Hydrolysis of scandium ions causes the solution to become acidic.

Sc³⁺ + H₂O ⇌ Sc(OH)²⁺ + H⁺

4. Precipitation with Ammonia:

Sc(NO₃)₃ + 3 NH₃ + 3 H₂O → Sc(OH)₃ ↓ + 3 NH₄NO₃

5. Precipitation with Oxalate:

2 Sc(NO₃)₃ + 3 (NH₄)₂C₂O₄ → Sc₂(C₂O₄)₃ ↓ + 6 NH₄NO₃

5. APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES

5.1. Aerospace and High-Performance Alloys (Most Important Application)

Scandium Nitrate is a precursor for the production of Aluminum-Scandium (Al-Sc) alloys, which are critical in the aerospace and defense industries. Al-Sc alloys offer low density, high strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and superior weldability. Scandium Nitrate is particularly valuable as a water-soluble scandium source for solution-based synthesis methods.

5.2. Optical and Specialty Glass

5.3. Advanced Ceramics and Materials

5.4. Catalyst Applications

5.5. Laboratory and Research

5.6. Electronics

6. SECTORAL SUITABILITY TABLE

7. SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGY

Safety Precautions:

• Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames.

• Store separately from combustible materials.

• Avoid dust formation.

• Work in well-ventilated areas.

• Use protective gloves, safety goggles, and dust mask.

• Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

• In case of eye contact, rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.

• Avoid contact with organic materials.

8. STORAGE AND HANDLING

9. TRANSPORT AND REGULATORY INFORMATION

10. QUALITY AND PURITY

11. RAW MATERIALS AND DOWNSTREAM PRODUCTS

11.1. Raw Materials (Upstream)

11.2. Downstream Products

12. FIRST AID MEASURES

13. FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

14. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

15. SUMMARY AND CRITICAL WARNINGS

SUMMARY:

Scandium(III) Nitrate (Sc(NO₃)₃·xH₂O, CAS 13465-60-6) is an inorganic salt composed of one Scandium (Sc³⁺) and three Nitrate (NO₃⁻) ions, containing a variable number of water molecules of crystallization. It appears as a white crystalline solid, is highly soluble in water and ethanol, and is hygroscopic (moisture-absorbing). As a rare earth-like metal, scandium exhibits similar chemical behavior to other trivalent rare earth elements.

Its most critical application is as a precursor for Aluminum-Scandium (Al-Sc) alloys used in the aerospace and defense industries. It is also used in specialty glasses, optical coatings, advanced ceramics, as a catalyst, and as a laboratory reagent for scandium chemistry research.

Under GHS classification, it is an oxidizer and harmful (H272, H302, H315, H319). Due to nitrate ions, it exhibits oxidizing properties and must be kept away from organic/reducing substances. Due to its hygroscopic nature, it must be stored in a cool, dry environment in tightly closed packaging. Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be used during handling to avoid inhalation of dust and contact with skin/eyes.

Key Properties:

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

1. Oxidizing Property: Exhibits oxidizing properties due to nitrate ions. Contact with organic materials, reducing agents, and combustible materials must be avoided. May intensify fire (H272). Therefore, it must be stored separately and away from combustible and reducing materials.

2. Hygroscopic Property and Moisture Sensitivity: Highly hygroscopic and rapidly absorbs moisture from the air. Storage and weighing operations must not be performed in humid environments. After opening, the container must be quickly resealed and storage under an inert atmosphere (nitrogen, argon) is preferred. Moisture absorption compromises weighing accuracy and stoichiometry.

3. Low Melting Point and Thermal Instability: Melts at approximately 60°C by dissolving in its own water of crystallization. This is an important property to consider during thermal processes. At higher temperatures, nitrate groups decompose, releasing toxic nitrogen oxides (NO, NO₂). Thermal processes should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods.

4. Variable Hydration State: The product may contain a variable number of water molecules of crystallization. Different hydrate forms have different molecular weights. The exact hydration state should be confirmed with the supplier. Stoichiometric calculations must account for the water content.

5. Structure and Purity: High purity (≥ 99.9%) is critical for metallurgical, optical, and electronic applications. Even trace amounts of other metals can adversely affect alloy properties or optical performance.

6. Dust Control: The powder form can irritate the lungs if inhaled. Dust control measures must be implemented in the work area (closed systems, local exhaust ventilation) and appropriate respiratory protection (dust mask or N95/FFP2) must be used.

7. Aqueous Solution Acidity: Aqueous solutions are acidic due to hydrolysis. Appropriate protective equipment should be used when working with acidic solutions, and base solutions should be available for neutralization.

8. Environmental Precautions: As a water-soluble salt, release into the environment (particularly water sources) must be prevented. Scandium compounds may exhibit toxic effects in aquatic environments. Waste solutions must not be discharged into sewers and must be disposed of according to local regulations.

9. Regulatory Compliance: Registration and notification requirements under REACH and KKDİK must be observed. It is classified as Class 5.1 (Oxidizing substance) under ADR/IMDG/IATA, requiring special labeling and documentation during transport. Use in food, cosmetics, and textile sectors is strictly prohibited.

10. Special Warning for Al-Sc Alloy Applications: For Al-Sc alloy production, the purity of scandium nitrate is critical. Impurities such as iron, silicon, and other transition metals can significantly degrade alloy properties. Additionally, the nitrate decomposition temperature and residual carbon/oxygen content after processing must be carefully controlled to avoid contamination of the final alloy.

11. Special Warning for Optical Applications: For optical applications, the nitrate content must be completely decomposed to avoid light absorption or scattering. Thermal treatment protocols should be optimized to ensure complete nitrate removal without introducing other defects.

12. Scandium Supply Chain Considerations: Scandium is a scarce and expensive metal. Efficient use, recovery, and recycling of scandium-containing materials should be considered. The nitrate form is particularly useful for solution-based processing and recovery methods.

Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on available data and is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, handling, storage, and regulatory compliance information, always refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are responsible for testing the product in their own processes and applications. All local, national, and international regulations must be followed when working with Scandium(III) Nitrate.