Gränges Developed Two Scandium Alloys for 3D Printing
The AluScaL project produced aluminium-scandium alloys designed for hydrogen and high-temperature environments.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Materials Science
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Gränges Powder Metallurgy has announced the development of two new aluminium-scandium alloys tailored for Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) additive manufacturing. These materials were developed through the three-year AluScaL project, which concluded in 2025.
Why it matters
These alloys are designed to overcome supply constraints while providing necessary material stability in extreme conditions, specifically high-temperature settings or hydrogen-rich environments.
The Al-Si-Sc alloy is being engineered for elevated-temperature applications, while the Al-Mg-Sc variant is optimized for hydrogen environments between 100-250°C.
The players
Gränges Powder Metallurgy
A developer of specialized metal powders for additive manufacturing based in Saint-Avold, France.
IRT M2P
A French research institute in Metz specializing in material atomisation and process industrialization.
PINT
A research entity in Metz focused on developing additive manufacturing process parameters.
The details
The development utilizes Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB), a 3D printing method that uses a laser to melt metal powder layer by layer. IRT M2P, a materials research institute, conducted atomisation trials to refine alloy chemistry, while PINT established the necessary PBF-LB process parameters. These materials incorporate scandium to improve thermal stability, addressing performance limitations common in standard aluminium 3D printing powders.
Timeline
The AluScaL project concluded in 2025.
Material testing for the Al-Si-Sc alloy is expected to conclude in Q4 2026.
Initial PBF-LB trial results for the Al-Mg-Sc alloy are expected in Q4 2026.
First demonstrator components are expected in 2027.
The Tech Race
The AluScaL project marks a strategic push to diversify scandium-based material supplies for additive manufacturing. This effort positions these new alloys as specialized alternatives to standard aerospace-grade materials currently used in high-heat industrial sectors.
The technology currently remains in a research and qualification phase, with initial demonstrator components expected in 2027. Once qualified, these materials aim to replace conventional alloys in high-temperature industrial components and hydrogen-exposed infrastructure.
The takeaway
These alloys offer a potential solution for scaling metal 3D printing in high-stress thermal environments. Industry participants should monitor the Q4 2026 material test results for specific performance metrics.
Further reading
For more on the latest research in additive manufacturing, visit our Materials Science section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Metal Additive Manufacturing.
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