Gränges, PINT and IRT M2P develop aluminium-scandium alloys for AM
Gränges Powder Metallurgy (GPM), based in Saint-Avold, France, along with PINT and the Institut de Recherche Technologique Matériaux, Métallurgie et Procédés (IRT M2P), both based in Metz, France, have reported developing two aluminium-scandium alloys for Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) Additive Manufacturing. Both programmes are progressing through development and testing, with the first demonstrator components expected in 2027.
The addition of scandium to aluminium alloys has been studied for decades, although its use in Western markets has been limited by geopolitical and supply concerns. According to the partners, emerging supply sources, particularly in Canada, could help address these constraints.
Al-Si-Sc alloy for elevated-temperature applications
The first alloy, Al-Si-Sc, is intended for applications requiring elevated-temperature performance and dimensional accuracy. The alloy contains a high proportion of silicon, together with scandium and other alloying elements.
The programme draws on GPM’s experience in producing hypereutectic aluminium-silicon alloys and findings from the three-year AluScaL (Aluminium Scandium Alloys) project, which investigated aluminium-scandium alloys for Additive Manufacturing and concluded in 2025.
IRT M2P is conducting atomisation trials to assess the effects of variations in alloy chemistry, while PINT is developing PBF-LB Additive Manufacturing process parameters. According to the partners, initial results indicate good processability across a broad processing window.
Material testing is ongoing and is expected to conclude in the fourth quarter of 2026. Discussions have also begun with potential industrial users, particularly in the defence and automotive sectors, where lightweight components with thermal stability and dimensional accuracy are required.
Al-Mg-Sc alloy for hydrogen environments
The second alloy, Al-Mg-Sc, is being developed for applications operating in hydrogen environments at temperatures of 100–250°C, where fatigue resistance is a key requirement.
Following development of the alloy chemistry, patenting activities are under way. The partners report successful pilot-scale powder production, with further atomisation trials planned to assess the effects of variations in chemical composition.
PBF-LB trials are also scheduled to begin, with initial results expected in the fourth quarter of 2026. Material characterisation and qualification activities are planned for completion in the first quarter of 2027.
An industrial partner from the energy sector is supporting the testing programme, with a focus on material development and qualification for hydrogen-related applications.
The two programmes are intended to expand the range of aluminium alloys available for PBF-LB, with potential applications in transportation, energy and other engineering sectors.
