Core Insights - NioCorp and IBC Advanced Alloys have successfully produced a 0.2% aluminum-scandium alloy, confirming readiness for custom part fabrication and advancing scandium applications [1][2][3] Company Updates - The successful casting of the aluminum-scandium alloy is a significant step towards potential downstream alloy manufacturing and custom-part readiness for both NioCorp and IBC [2][4] - NioCorp aims to develop a reliable domestic scandium supply chain for defense and commercial markets, with the ability to produce functional parts from the alloy [3][5] - IBC has extensive experience in producing custom components from various alloys, which supports the new commercial applications for scandium-containing materials [4][9] Industry Context - Global consumption of scandium oxide is estimated at 30 to 40 tonnes per year, primarily sourced as a by-product from other mining operations, with no commercial-scale production in the U.S. [4] - The limited global use of scandium is attributed to a lack of reliable supply, with most supply coming from China, which has restricted exports for dual-use applications [4] - There is growing interest in scandium from sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and defense, which seek lighter and stronger components [4][8] Future Plans - NioCorp plans to produce approximately 100 tonnes per year of scandium oxide at its Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project, alongside niobium and titanium products [5][8] - The company is also evaluating the potential to produce several rare earths from the Elk Creek Project, addressing U.S. reliance on foreign producers [5][8]