Scandium is used in the production of special alloys, laser-based devices, microelectronics and other hi-tech systems. The Swiss company uses scandium-reinforced magnesium alloys to manufacture a new type of vascular stents, which undergo trials under several international research programs. Stent implants have been successfully tested on animals, with tests on humans already on the list. “Extra pure scandium manufactured by VNIINM is used as an alloying element in magnesium alloys required for the production of cardiovascular stents. The first shipment of scandium from VNIINM was made two years ago,” said Irina Lesina, Director for Non-Nuclear Technology and Equipment Engineering at VNIINM.