Scandium

Location:  Group 3, Period 4
Atomic Weight:  44.95591
Coordination Number:  6
Chemical Form in Solution:  Sc(H₂O)₆⁺²

Storage & Handling:  Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for pipetting to container.

Chemical Compatibility:  Soluble in HCl, H₂SO₄, and HNO₃. Avoid HF, H₃PO₄, and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride. Avoid mixing with elements / solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride. The fluoride is soluble in excess HF, forming ScF₆^3- (not recommended for standard preparations).

Stability:  2-100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO₃ / LDPE container. 1-10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 5-10% HNO₃ / LDPE container. Small atomic radius increases hydrolysis requiring higher acid levels than other Rare Earths.

Sc Containing Samples (Preparation & Solution):  Metal (soluble in acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H₂O / HNO₃); Ores (carbonate fusion in Pt⁰ followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in 1:1 H₂O / HCl or HNO₃ - aqua regia or nitric / perchloric / Sulphuric acid digestions can be used - exercise caution when using perchloric acid).