Uses of molybdenum and its molybdenum-bearing minerals

Molybdenum is widely used as an additive in the refining of all types of alloy steels, stainless steels, heat-resistant steels, tool steels, cast irons, rolls, superalloys and non-ferrous metals. The content of molybdenum in various alloy steels ranges from 0.1-10%. Molybdenum is used in most cases together with additives for other alloys such as chromium, manganese, tungsten, niobium, and vanadium. In stainless steel, the addition of 1-4% molybdenum enhances the corrosion resistance of stainless steel in corrosive environments. In oxidizing environments, molybdenum promotes the rapid formation of a protective layer of chromium oxide (a fundamental property of stainless steel). In tool steels, the addition of 0.5-10% molybdenum improves the heat resistance, wear resistance and impact resistance of tool steels.

Molybdenum metal is mainly used in the electronics industry to make high-power vacuum tubes, magnetrons, heating tubes, X-ray tubes and components for gate tubes.

Molybdenum compounds, such as molybdenum trioxide, ammonium molybdate, sodium dimolybdate, ammonium molybdate and alkylammonium polymolybdate, etc. in the field of chemical industry as a catalyst, widely used in organic synthesis, hydrogenation, alkylation and petroleum reforming. Some molybdenum compounds are also used in pigments, dyes and paints. It is also used as an additive in fertilizers and vitamins.

Molybdenum dioxide, oil-soluble organic compounds is a high-level lubricant, used in automobiles, steam turbines and other types of heavy machinery lubrication. Molybdenum metal and molybdenum alloys are also used in the manufacture of molybdenum crucibles, resistant components and a wide range of auxiliary components. Together with cobalt, nickel, tungsten, aluminum and iron, molybdenum is used to make a variety of high-performance alloys.