Extraction of Scandium from Coal Ash in Korea : Potential to Secure Supply Chain for Nuclear and Small Modular Reactors Feedstock

Korea's evolving energy landscape, marked by increasing nuclear energy production and the government's strategic investment in small modular reactors, underscores the demand for scandium as a critical material. Coal ash, a significant byproduct of coal combustion, contains trace amounts of scandium, presenting a promising yet underutilized resource. The extraction process involves leaching scandium from coal ash using various acidic solutions and subsequent extraction and purification techniques. Detailed investigations on scandium concentration in Korean coal ash samples reveal concentrations ranging from 21.6 to 63.9 ppm, highlighting the economic viability of scandium recovery. Economic analysis based on current market prices estimates an annual potential value of scandium in Korean coal ash between $1.1 to $3.25 billion. This study proposes a scalable process design for industrial deployment, emphasizing sustainable resource management and reducing reliance on traditional mining methods. The findings contribute to advancing Korea's energy security goals and environmental stewardship through innovative scandium recovery strategies.