Scandium Canada Ltd. (TSX-V: SCD) announced the execution of a mutual non-disclosure agreement with the University of Waterloo's Multi-Scale Additive Manufacturing Laboratory (MSAM) to establish research collaboration in additive manufacturing of aluminum alloys. The agreement, announced on June 1, 2026, marks a step toward accelerating the commercialization of aluminum-scandium (Al-Sc) alloys in advanced manufacturing.
Earlier this month, Luc Duchesne, Ph.D., Chief Science Officer of Scandium Canada and Head of Scandium+, visited MSAM and met with representatives to initiate research trials. MSAM, recognized as one of Canada's leading additive manufacturing research centres, operates from Catalyst137 in Kitchener, Ontario. With more than $25 million of state-of-the-art equipment, MSAM has built a strong international reputation for metal 3D printing, process optimization, development of advanced materials, and qualification of specialized alloys for industrial applications.
The collaboration will be led by Professor Mihaela Vlasea, Ph.D., Co-Director of MSAM and Canada Research Chair (Tier II) in Sustainable Additive Manufacturing, with research support from Mohsen K. Keshavarz, Ph.D., Research Associate. The work will be coordinated by Luc Duchesne.
“Collaborating with one of the most respected additive manufacturing laboratories in the world marks an important step forward for Scandium Canada and for our Scandium+ division,” said Guy Bourassa, Chief Executive Officer of Scandium Canada. “This initiative reflects our commitment to generating concrete commercial opportunities for aluminum-scandium alloys. Working alongside MSAM, a top-tier Canadian research and development organization with deep market expertise and a strong business network, represents a significant step toward achieving our objectives.”
"Our first target is to develop processes to reduce the cost of advanced manufacturing using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) to broaden the spectrum of market opportunities," said Luc Duchesne. "It is exciting to engage with the industry ecosystem to address pressing supply chain needs for metal additive manufacturing," said Mihaela Vlasea.
Scandium Canada's Scandium+ division focuses on research, development, and commercialization of innovative scandium uses. The company aims to bring the world's leading primary source of scandium into production, enabling development of Al-Sc alloys for lighter, greener, longer-lasting materials. This partnership with MSAM could accelerate adoption of Al-Sc alloys in industries like aerospace, automotive, and defense, where weight reduction and performance are critical. By leveraging MSAM's expertise, Scandium Canada aims to overcome cost barriers associated with additive manufacturing, potentially making Al-Sc alloys more accessible for commercial applications.
The agreement underscores the growing interest in scandium as a alloying element to enhance aluminum properties, including strength and corrosion resistance. As additive manufacturing expands, partnerships like this are crucial for developing qualified materials and processes. The collaboration may also benefit the Canadian advanced manufacturing ecosystem, positioning the country as a leader in specialized metal 3D printing.
