Advancements in scandium resource utilization and extraction technologies in China

Scandium is extensively utilized in advanced technologies, including aerospace materials, electronic information, and nuclear technology, and is considered a strategic resource. At present, low-grade associated minerals and secondary resources serve as the primary sources of scandium. This paper provides an overview of recent research progress in China. It reviews the extraction processes for scandium from various scandium-containing raw materials, analyses the extraction mechanisms and performance of different extractant systems currently employed, and discusses the existing problems and challenges in scandium extraction.