Scandium nitrate hydrate

Scandium nitrate hydrate (CAS 13465-60-6) is an inorganic scandium(III) salt, a hydrated crystalline solid; also referenced under CAS 107552-14-7 and sometimes labelled the pentahydrate (Sc(NO₃)₃·5H₂O, MW 320.96).

Where is Scandium nitrate hydrate used?

• Electronics and SOFC manufacturing: sol-gel or co-precipitation precursor for scandia-stabilised zirconia (ScSZ) electrolyte powders
• Optical coatings, electroceramics and luminescent materials: precursor yielding Sc₂O₃ or mixed-oxide phases with controlled stoichiometry
• Catalysis: Lewis acid catalyst and impregnation precursor for supported scandium oxide systems, including Beckmann rearrangement
• Pharmaceutical and healthcare research: scandium intermediate in radiochemical and formulation studies
• The nitrate route gives homogeneous cation distribution at the molecular level, critical for ionic conductivity targets in next-generation electrolyte films.

Good to know: Classified as an oxidising solid, transported under UN 1477 (Class 5.1), signal word Danger; store away from combustible materials, reducing agents and heat. The clean thermal decomposition profile leaves no halide or sulphate residue, an advantage over alternative salt forms where residual anion contamination would harm downstream performance.

Commercial specifications

• REO basis grades: Sc₂O₃/TREO ≥ 99.9 %, ≥ 99.99 %, ≥ 99.999 %
• TREO content of the salt typically exceeds 40 %
• Pharmaceutical buyers typically require ≥ 99.999 % REO basis with full lot-specific analytical documentation
• Pack sizes 1 g to 1 kg glass bottles for high-purity lots; bulk in sealed, moisture-resistant containers