Finnish mining and metals company Terrafame is studying the possibility of producing scandium at its uranium facility in Sotkamo, a move that could make it Europe’s only supplier of the critical mineral.
The state-controlled company said it has launched a pre-feasibility study into recovering scandium from a side stream at its uranium recovery plant. Terrafame expects to complete the study by the end of 2026 and make a final investment decision in early 2027.
Scandium is classified by the European Union as a critical raw material. It is used in high-performance aluminium alloys for aerospace, defence and other high-tech industries.
According to Terrafame, around 85 percent of the world’s scandium supply currently comes from China. The metal has become increasingly important as geopolitical tensions and export restrictions raise concerns over supply security in Europe and the West.
Terrafame CEO Antti Koulumies said the company wants to strengthen European access to critical minerals while making fuller use of its existing ore resources.
The company said production could begin within two years if the project moves forward. Terrafame already produces uranium, nickel, zinc, copper and cobalt at its Finnish operations.
