Molybdenum
About Molybdenum

The chemical and physical properties of molybdenum metal and its alloys are prized by a wide range of industries ranging from defense, avionics, metallurgy, glassmaking, pigments and dyes, organometallic chemistry, and the manufacturing of photovoltaics and semiconductor devices. A silvery gray transition metal, molybdenum is also one of the refractory metals, a group of metals with the shared properties of extremely high melting points and thermal conductivity, low thermal expansion and vapor pressure, excellent dimensional stability and creep resistance, and resistance to oxidation; its chemical behavior is similar to that of tungsten. Molybdenum has the sixth highest melting point of all elements and one of the lowest coefficients of thermal expansion among commercial metals, yet possesses a density only 25% higher than iron. It is the 54th most abundant element in the earth’s crust but does not occur freely in nature, rather present in oxide forms with various valence states. Common molybdenum-containing minerals include molybdenite (molybdenum sulfide), wulfenite (lead molybdate), and powellite; the metal is commercially produced via the direct mining of molybdenite as well as the production of tungsten and copper.
Molybdenum-containing minerals have been known since ancient times, but the element was often identified as lead; its current name is derived from the Ancient Greek word for lead, molybdos, owing to the confusion between lead sulfide and molybdenum sulfides, the latter of which was originally referred to as molybdena. Carl Wilhelm Scheele identified the element in 1778 by producing molybdenum oxide from molybdenite (naming it “terra molybdaenae”); in 1781, Peter Jacob Hjelm heated linseed oil and carbon combined with molybdic acid to yield the metal.
Molybdenum is toxic in high amounts but plays a critical biological role as a cofactor required for enzyme function; it did not play a significant commercial role until utilized in German artillery during World War II. Since then, its role as an alloying agent has composed more than 75% of its usage; often referred to as “moly,” it lends numerous advantages including increased hardness, strength, creep resistance, resistance to wear and corrosion, weldability, and stability in high stress, high temperature environments. Besides quenched and tempered steels, prevalent molybdenum alloys used in x-ray tubes, forging tools, and other applications include Hastelloys, ferromolybdenum, Titanium-Zirconium-Molybdenum (TZM), and Molybdenum-Lanthanum (lanthanated moly, or MoLa) which exhibits higher strength and dimensional stability than TZM. Commercial products that benefit from the use of molybdenum include armor, aircraft engine components, glass melting electrodes, valves, boiler plates, ribbons and wires for lighting, semiconductor base plates, hot-zones and heat sinks, sputtering targets for photovoltaic cell coatings and flat screens, crucibles for sapphire growth, circuit inks, and microwave devices. The isotope Molybdenum-99 is also used in nuclear imaging.
Molybdenum compounds are often used as industrial catalysts for removal of sulfide compounds from crude oil, converting water to hydrogen gas, producing formaldehyde and acrylonitrile, and, in the case of the n-type semiconductor molybdenum trioxide, acting as a photocatalyst; other applications include lubricants and pigments. Molybdenum disulfide and molybdenum diselenide have the ability to form two-dimensional thin films analogous to those of carbon (in the form of graphene) for use in flexible electronics; electrodes composed of MoS2-graphene nanosheet composites vastly improve performance of next-generation sodium air batteries.
Products
Compounds
- Aluminum Molybdate
- Ammonium 6-Molybdocobaltate
- Ammonium Dimolybdate
- Ammonium Molybdate
- Ammonium Molybdate Solution
- Ammonium Molybdate Tetrahydrate
- Ammonium Octamolybdate
- Ammonium Phosphomolybdate
- Ammonium Phosphomolybdate Hydrate
- Ammonium Tetrathiomolybdate
- Barium Europium Calcium Molybdate
- Barium Molybdate
- Bismuth Iron Molybdenum Oxide
- Bismuth Molybdate Bi2MoO6
- Bismuth Molybdate Bi2Mo2O9
- Bismuth(III) Molybdate Bi2Mo3O12
- Cadmium Molybdate
- Calcium Molybdate
- Calcium Molybdenum Oxide
- Cerium Molybdenum Oxide
- Cesium Molybdate
- Cobalt Molybdate
- Cobalt(II) Molybdenum Oxide Hydrate
- Cobalt Oxide-Molybdenum Oxide on Alumina
- Copper Molybdate
- Iron(II) Molybdate
- Lead Molybdate
- Lithium Molybdate
- Magnesium Molybdate
- Manganese Molybdate
- Molybdenite
- Molybdenum Acetate
- Molybdenum(II) Acetate Dimer
- Molybdenum Acetate Solution
- Molybdenum Aluminide
- Molybdenum Aluminum Boride
- Molybdenum Aluminum Carbide
- Molybdenum Boride MoB
- Molybdenum Boride Mo2B
- Molybdenum Boride Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum(II) Bromide MoBr2
- Molybdenum(III) Bromide MoBr3
- Molybdenum Carbide MoC
- Molybdenum Carbide Mo2C
- Molybdenum Carbide Mo3C2
- Molybdenum(II) Chloride MoCl2
- Molybdenum(III) Chloride MoCl3
- Molybdenum(V) Chloride MoCl5
- Molybdenum Chloride Solution
- Molybdenum(VI) Dichloride Dioxide
- Molybdenum Disilicide
- Molybdenum Disilicide Heating Elements
- Molybdenum(III) Fluoride MoF3
- Molybdenum(VI) Fluoride MoF6
- Molybdenum Gallium Carbide
- Molybdenum(II) Iodide MoI2
- Molybdenum(III) Iodide MoI3
- Molybdenum(IV) Iodide MoI4
- Molybdenum(IV) Oxide MoO2
- Molybdenum(VI) Oxide MoO3
- Molybdenum Nitride MoN
- Molybdenum Nitride Mo2N
- Molybdenum Oxalate
- Molybdenum Sulfate
- Molybdenum Sulfate Solution
- Molybdenum(VI) Tetrachloride Oxide
- Molybdenum Titanium Aluminum Carbide Mo2Ti2AlC3
- Molybdenum Titanium Aluminum Carbide Mo2TiAlC2
- Molybdenum Titanium Carbide Mo2TiC2
- Molybdenum Zinc Oxide
- Molybdic Acid
- Nickel(II) Molybdate
- Nickel Molybdate Hydrate
- Phosphomolybdic Acid Hydrate
- Potassium Molybdate
- Rubidium Molybdate
- Silicomolybdic Acid Hydrate
- Silver Molybdate
- Silver Molybdenum Oxide
- Sodium Molybdate
- Sodium Molybdate Anhydrous
- Sodium Molybdate Dihydrate
- Sodium Molybdenum Oxide, Anhydrous
- Sodium Phosphomolybdate Hydrate
- Strontium Iron Molybdenum Oxide
- Strontium Molybdate
- Thallium Molybdate
- Tungsten Oxide - Molybdenum Oxide
- Zinc Molybdate
Metallic Forms
- Molybdenum Balls
- Molybdenum Bands
- Molybdenum Bars
- Molybdenum Billets
- Molybdenum Blocks
- Molybdenum Boats
- Molybdenum Bolts
- Molybdenum Caps
- Molybdenum Chunk
- Molybdenum Coil
- Molybdenum Concentrate
- Molybdenum Crucibles
- Molybdenum Cubes
- Molybdenum Cylinder
- Molybdenum Disc
- Molybdenum Electrode
- Molybdenum Filaments
- Molybdenum Flakes
- Molybdenum Flanges
- Molybdenum Foam
- Molybdenum Foil
- Molybdenum Forgings
- Molybdenum Furnace Parts
- Molybdenum Gauze
- Molybdenum Glass Melting Electrodes
- Molybdenum Granules
- Molybdenum Grids
- Molybdenum Honeycomb
- Molybdenum Ingot
- Molybdenum Insulated Wire
- Molybdenum Lump
- Molybdenum Mandrels
- Molybdenum Mesh
- Molybdenum Metal
- Molybdenum Microfoil
- Molybdenum Microleaf
- Molybdenum Needles
- Molybdenum Nuts
- Molybdenum Particles
- Molybdenum Parts
- Molybdenum Pellets
- Molybdenum Pieces
- Molybdenum Pins
- Molybdenum Platens
- Molybdenum Plates
- Molybdenum Powder
- Molybdenum Puck
- Molybdenum Ribbon
- Molybdenum Rings
- Molybdenum Rod
- Molybdenum Samples
- Molybdenum Shaving
- Molybdenum Sheets
- Molybdenum Shot
- Molybdenum Single Crystal
- Molybdenum Sintering Trays
- Molybdenum Sleeves
- Molybdenum Slugs
- Molybdenum Specimens
- Molybdenum Spheres
- Molybdenum Sponge
- Molybdenum Spring
- Molybdenum Squares
- Molybdenum Stirrers
- Molybdenum Strip
- Molybdenum Tape
- Molybdenum Tube
- Molybdenum Wafer
- Molybdenum Washers
- Molybdenum Wire
- Molybdenum Wool
- Molybdenum Wire
- Platinum-Coated Molybdenum Ribbon
- Platinum-Coated Molybdenum Wire
- Potassium-doped Molybdenum Wire
Alloys
- Aluminum Molybdenum Vanadium Alloy
- Aluminum Molybdenum Vanadium Chromium Titanium Alloy
- Carbon Steel Cut Wire Shot
- Carpenter 20 Alloy
- Chromium Molybdenum Alloy
- Chromium Molybdenum Sputtering Target
- Cobalt Boron Silicon Iron Molybdenum Nickel Foil
- Cobalt Chromium Molybdenum Alloy
- Cobalt Chromium Molybdenum Powder
- Cobalt Molybdenum Alloy
- Cobalt Chromium Nickel Iron Molybdenum Manganese
- Cobalt Nickel Chromium Iron Molybdenum Titanium
- Cobalt Nickel Chromium Iron Molybdenum Tungsten Titanium
- Cobalt Nickel Chromium Molybdenum Alloy
- Cobalt Silicon Molybdenum Iron Boron Niobium Foil
- Copper Clad Molybdenum
- Gadolinium Iron Molybdenum Alloy
- H13 Steel Powder
- Hastelloy B Alloy
- Hastelloy B Alloy Foil
- Hastelloy C-22 Alloy
- Hastelloy C-276 Alloy
- Hastelloy C276 Foil
- Hastelloy X Alloy
- HY-MU 80 Alloy
- Inconel 617 Alloy
- Inconel 625 Alloy
- Inconel 625 Powder
- Inconel 686 Alloy
- Inconel 713C Powder
- Inconel 718 Powder
- Inconel 738 Alloy
- Iron Chromium Molybdenum Alloy
- Iron Chromium Molybdenum Foil
- Iron Chromium Nickel Copper Molybdenum Niobium
- Iron Chromium Nickel Manganese Molybdenum
- Iron Chromium Nickel Molybdenum
- Iron Chromium Nickel Molybdenum Aluminum
- Iron Chromium Nickel Titanium Molybdenum
- Iron Manangese Chromium Molybdenum Nitrogen
- Iron Manganese Molybdenum Nickel
- Iron Molybdenum Alloy
- Lanthanated Moly Balls
- Lanthanated Moly Bands
- Lanthanated Moly Bars
- Lanthanated Moly Coil
- Lanthanated Moly Concentrate
- Lanthanated Moly Crucibles
- Lanthanated Moly Cylinder
- Lanthanated Moly Disc
- Lanthanated Moly Flanges
- Lanthanated Moly Foam
- Lanthanated Moly Foil
- Lanthanated Moly Granules
- Lanthanated Moly Ingot
- Lanthanated Moly Lump
- Lanthanated Moly Metal
- Lanthanated Moly Parts
- Lanthanated Moly Pellets
- Lanthanated Moly Pieces
- Lanthanated Moly Plate
- Lanthanated Moly Powder
- Lanthanated Moly Puck
- Lanthanated Moly Ribbon
- Lanthanated Moly Ring
- Lanthanated Moly Rod
- Lanthanated Moly Samples
- Lanthanated Moly Shaving
- Lanthanated Moly Sheet
- Lanthanated Moly Shot
- Lanthanated Moly Slugs
- Lanthanated Moly Specimens
- Lanthanated Moly Spheres
- Lanthanated Moly Sponge
- Lanthanated Moly Spring
- Lanthanated Moly Strip
- Lanthanated Moly Tape
- Lanthanated Moly Tube
- Lanthanated Moly Wafer
- Lanthanated Moly Wire
- Lanthanated Moly Wool
- Maraging Steel
- Maraging Steel Powder
- Molybdenum Aluminum Alloy
- Molybdenum Aluminum Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Chromium Alloy
- Molybdenum Copper Alloy
- Molybdenum Copper Heat Sinks
- Molybdenum Copper Wafers
- Molybdenum Hafnium Carbide (MHC) Alloy
- Molybdenum Rhenium Alloy
- Molybdenum Rhenium Foil
- Molybdenum Rhodium Alloy
- Molybdenum Silicon Alloy
- Molybdenum Silicon Foil
- Molybdenum Titanium Alloy
- Molybdenum Tungsten Alloy
- Molybdenum Yttrium Ribbon
- Nickel Chromium Cobalt Molybdenum Titanium Aluminum Alloy
- Nickel Chromium Cobalt Molybdenum Titanium Aluminum Iron Alloy
- Nickel Chromium Iron Molybdenum Alloy
- Nickel Chromium Molybdenum Boron Alloy Powder
- Nickel Chromium Molybdenum Iron Alloy
- Nickel Iron Chromium Molybdenum Alloy
- Nickel Iron Chromium Molybdenum Titanium Alloy
- Nickel Iron Molybdenum Alloy
- Nickel Iron Molybdenum Foil
- Nickel Iron Molybdenum Wire
- Nickel Molybdenum Alloy
- Nickel Molybdenum Chromium Iron Alloy
- Nickel Molybdenum Iron Chromium Alloy
- Nickel Chromium Molybdenum Boron Alloy Particles
- TA15 Titanium Alloy
- TA15 Titanium Alloy Powder
- TA19 Titanium Alloy Powder
- Tantalum Molybdenum Alloy
- Tantalum Molybdenum Foil
- TC11 Titanium Alloy Powder
- Titanium Based Aluminum Molybdenum Zirconium Alloy
- Titanium Molybdenum Alloy
- Titanium Based Molybdenum Zirconium Iron Alloy
- Titanium Based Molybdenum Zirconium Tin Alloy
- Titanium Beta III Alloy Foil
- Titanium Molybdenum Alloy
- Titanium Molybdenum Niobium Aluminium Silicon Foil
- Titanium 6-2-4-2 Alloy
- Tungsten Nickel Iron Molybdenum Alloy
- TZM Molybdenum Alloy
- TZM Moly Alloy Balls
- TZM Moly Alloy Bands
- TZM Moly Alloy Bars
- TZM Moly Alloy Coil
- TZM Moly Alloy Concentrate
- TZM Moly Alloy Crucible
- TZM Moly Alloy Cups
- TZM Moly Alloy Cylinder
- TZM Moly Alloy Disc
- TZM Moly Alloy Flanges
- TZM Moly Alloy Foam
- TZM Moly Alloy Foil
- TZM Moly Alloy Granules
- TZM Moly Alloy Honeycomb
- TZM Moly Alloy Ingot
- TZM Moly Alloy Lump
- TZM Moly Alloy Mesh
- TZM Moly Alloy Parts
- TZM Moly Alloy Pellets
- TZM Moly Alloy Pieces
- TZM Moly Alloy Plate
- TZM Moly Alloy Powder
- TZM Moly Alloy Puck
- TZM Moly Alloy Ribbon
- TZM Moly Alloy Rings
- TZM Moly Alloy Rod
- TZM Moly Alloy Samples
- TZM Moly Alloy Shavings
- TZM Moly Alloy Sheet
- TZM Moly Alloy Shot
- TZM Moly Alloy Sleeves & Sheaths
- TZM Moly Alloy Slugs
- TZM Moly Alloy Specimens
- TZM Moly Alloy Spheres
- TZM Moly Alloy Sponge
- TZM Moly Alloy Spring
- TZM Moly Alloy Strip
- TZM Moly Alloy Tape
- TZM Moly Alloy Tube
- TZM Moly Alloy Wafer
- TZM Moly Alloy Wire
- TZM Moly Alloy Wool
- Vanadium Molybdenum Alloy
- Vanadium Molybdenum Foil
- Yttrium Copper Molybdenum Alloy
Oxide Forms
- Cobalt Oxide-Molybdenum Oxide on Alumina
- Molybdenum(IV) Oxide MoO2
- Molybdenum(VI) Oxide MoO3
- Molybdenum Oxide Nanoparticles
- Molybdenum Oxide Particles
- Molybdenum Oxide Pellets
- Molybdenum Oxide Pieces
- Molybdenum Oxide Powder
- Molybdenum Oxide Rotatable Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Oxide Shot
- Molybdenum Oxide Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Oxide Tablets
- Molybdenum(VI) Tetrachloride Oxide
- Silver Molybdenum Oxide
- Sodium Molybdenum Oxide, Anhydrous
- Tungsten Oxide - Molybdenum Oxide
Organometallics
- 2,6-Diisopropylphenylimido-neophylidene[(R)-(-)-BIPHEN]molybdenum(VI)
- 2,6-Diisopropylphenylimido-neophylidene[(S)-(-)-BIPHEN]molybdenum(VI)
- 2,6-Diisopropylphenylimido Neophylidenemolybdenum(VI) Bis(trifluoromethanesulfonate)dimethoxyethane Adduct
- 2,6-Diisopropylphenylimidoneophylidene Molybdenum(VI) Bis(hexafluoro-t-butoxide)
- 2,6-Diisopropylphenylimidoneophylidene Molybdenum(VI) Bis(t-butoxide)
- 2,6-Diisopropylphenylimidoneophylidene[racemic-BIPHEN]molybdenum(VI)
- (Bicyclo[2.2.1]hepta-2,5-diene)tetracarbonylmolybdenum(0)
- Bis(acetonitrile)tetracarbonylmolybdenum(0)
- Bis(acetylacetonato)dioxomolybdenum(VI)
- Bis(cyclopentadienyl)molybdenum(IV) Dichloride
- Bis(cyclopentadienyl)molybdenum Dihydride
- Bis(ethylbenzene)molybdenum
- Bis(isopropylcyclopentadienyl) Molybdenum Dihydride
- Bis(t-butylimido)bis(dimethylamino)molybdenum(VI)
- Cycloheptatriene Molybdenum Tricarbonyl
- Cyclopentadienylmolybdenum(IV) Tetrachloride
- Cyclopentadienylmolybdenum(II) Tricarbonyl, Dimer
- Methylcyclopentadienylmolybdenum(I) Tricarbonyl, Dimer
- Molybdenum 2-Ethylhexanoate
- Molybdenum(VI) Dioxide bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionate)
- Molybdenum(V) Ethoxide
- Molybdenum(V) Isopropoxide
- Molybdenumhexacarbonyl
- Molybdenum Naphthenate
- Molybdenum Octoate
- Molybdenum Tetrakis(dimethylamide)
- Molybdenum tris(1,2-bis(trifluoromethyl)ethane-1,2-dithiolene)
- Molybdenyl Diethyldithiocarbamate
- Oxodiperoxy(pyridine)(1,3-dimethyl-3,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2(1H)-pyrimidinone)molybdenum(IV)
- Pentamethylcyclopentadienylmolybdenum Dicarbonyl Dimer
- Tricarbonyltris(propionitrile)molybdenum(0)
- Trichlorotris(tetrahydrofuran)molybdenum(III)
- Tris(acetonitrile)tricarbonylmolybdenum(0)
- Tris(triphenylsilyloxy)Molybdenum Nitride Pyridine Complex
Nanomaterials
- Molybdenum Carbide Nanopowder
- Molybdenum Disulfide Nanoparticle Dispersion
- Molybdenum Disulfide Nanotubes
- Molybdenum Nanoparticles
- Molybdenum Nanoparticle Dispersion
- Molybdenum Nanorods
- Molybdenum Oxide Nanoparticles
- Molybdenum Oxide Nanoparticle Dispersion
- Molybdenum Sulfide Nanoparticles
- Potassium Trimolybdate Nanowires
- Sodium Ammonium Trimolybdate Nanowires
- Ultra Thin Molybdenum Nanoscale Foil
Semiconductor & Optical
- Molybdenum Diselenide Crystal
- Molybdenum(IV) Diselenide, Lithium Intercalated
- Molybdenum Disilicide
- Molybdenum Disulfide Crystal
- Molybdenum Disulfide Flakes
- Molybdenum Disulfide Ink
- Molybdenum(IV) Disulfide, Iodine Intercalated
- Molybdenum(IV) Disulfide, Lithium Intercalated
- Molybdenum Disulfide Ultrafine Powder
- Molybdenum Monoselenide
- Molybdenum Phosphide
- Molybdenum Rhenium Disulfide
- Molybdenum(IV) Selenide
- Molybdenum Selenide Flakes
- Molybdenum Silicide Mo5Si3
- Molybdenum Single Crystal
- Molybdenum Sulfide
- Molybdenum Sulfide Selenide
- Molybdenum Telluride
- Molybdenum Telluride Crystal
- Molybdenum Tungsten Diselenide
- Molybdenum Tungsten Disulfide
- Molybdenum Tungsten Ditelluride
Sputtering Targets
- Aluminum Copper Molybdenum Sputtering Target
- Aluminum Copper Molybdenum Rotatable Sputtering Target
- Aluminum Molybdenum Sputtering Target
- Chromium Molybdenum Sputtering Target
- Chromium Molybdenum Tantalum Sputtering Target
- Cobalt Chromium Molybdenum Alloy Sputtering Target
- Cobalt Molybdenum Zirconium Sputtering Target
- Copper Molybdate Sputtering Target
- Holmium Molybdenum Sputtering Target
- Indium Moly Oxide Sputtering Target
- Iron Manganese Molybdenum Nickel Alloy Sputtering Target
- Iron Molybdenum Alloy Sputtering Target
- Lanthanated Moly Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Aluminum Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Boride Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Carbide Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Chromium Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Copper Alloy Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Disilicide Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Disulfide Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Germanium Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Niobium Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Oxide Rotatable Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Oxide Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Phosphide Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Rhenium Alloy Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Rotatable Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Selenide Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Silicon Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Telluride Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Terbium Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Titanium Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Titanium Carbide Sputtering Target
- Molybdenum Trioxide Sputtering Targets
- Molybdenum Tungsten Sputtering Target
- Nickel Molybdenum Alloy Sputtering Target
- Platinum Molybdenum Alloy Sputtering Target
- Tantalum Molybdenum Sputtering Target
- Tin Oxide, Molybdenum-doped Sputtering Target
- TZM Moly Alloy Sputtering Target
- Vanadium Molybdenum Sputtering Target
Isotopes
Molybdenum is used in high-pressure and high-temperature environments as pigments and catalysts. It is also found used in nuclear reactors, aerospace components, and some forms of steel alloys to add hardness and raise melting points. Molybdenum is available as metal and compounds with purities from 99% to 99.999% (ACS grade to ultra-high purity).
Elemental or metallic forms include pellets, rod, wire and granules for evaporation source material purposes. Molybdenum nanoparticles and nanopowders are also available. Molybdenum oxides are available in powder and dense pellet form for such uses as optical coating and thin film applications. Oxides tend to be insoluble. Molybdenum fluorides are other insoluble forms for uses in which oxygen is undesirable such as metallurgy, chemical and physical vapor deposition and in some optical coatings. Molybdenum is also available in soluble forms including chlorides, nitrates and acetates. These compounds can be manufactured as solutions at specified stoichiometries.
Molybdenum Properties
Molybdenum is a Block D, Group 6, Period 5 element.
The number of electrons in each of molybdenum's shells is 2, 8, 18, 13, 1 and its electronic configuration is [Kr] 4d5 5s1. The molybdenum atom has a radius of 136.3.pm and its Van der Waals radius is 200.pm. In its elemental form, CAS 7439-98-7, molybdenum has a gray metallic appearance.
Molybdenum is the 54th most abundant element in the earth's crust. It has the third highest melting point of any element, exceeded only by tungsten and tantalum. Molybdenum does not occur naturally as a free metal, it is found in various oxidation states in minerals. The primary commercial source of molybdenum is molybdenite, although it is also recovered as a byproduct of copper and tungsten mining. Molybdenum was first discovered by Carl Wilhelm in 1778. The origin of the name molybdenum comes from the Greek word molubdos meaning lead.
General Properties
Symbol: | Mo |
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Atomic Number: | 42 |
Atomic Weight: | 95.96 |
Element Category: | transition metal |
Group, Period, Block: | 6, 5, d |
Color: | gray metallic/ gray-white |
Other Names: | Molybdéne, Molibdeno |
Physical Properties
Melting Point: | 2622°C, 4751.6°F, 2895.15 K |
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Boiling Point: | 4639°C, 8382.2°F, 4912.15 K |
Density: | 10.28 g·cm3 |
Liquid Density @ Melting Point: | 9.33 g·cm3 |
Density @ 20°C: | 10.2 g/cm3 |
Density of Solid: | 10280 kg·m3 |
Specific Heat: | 0.25 (kJ/kg K) |
Superconductivity Temperature: | 0.915 [or -272.235 °C (-458.02 °F)] K |
Triple Point: | N/A |
Critical Point: | N/A |
Heat of Fusion (kJ·mol-1): | 27.6 |
Heat of Vaporization (kJ·mol-1): | 589.9 |
Heat of Atomization (kJ·mol-1): | 656.55 |
Thermal Conductivity: | 138 W·m-1·K-1 |
Thermal Expansion: | (25 °C) 4.8 µm·m-1·K-1 |
Electrical Resistivity: | (20 °C) 53.4 nΩ·m |
Tensile Strength: | N/A |
Molar Heat Capacity: | 24.06 J·mol-1·K-1 |
Young's Modulus: | 329 GPa |
Shear Modulus: | 126 GPa |
Bulk Modulus: | 230 GPa |
Poisson Ratio: | 0.31 |
Mohs Hardness: | 5.5 |
Vickers Hardness: | 1530 MPa |
Brinell Hardness: | 1500 MPa |
Speed of Sound: | (r.t.) 5400 m·s-1 |
Pauling Electronegativity: | 2.16 |
Sanderson Electronegativity: | 1.15 |
Allred Rochow Electronegativity: | 1.3 |
Mulliken-Jaffe Electronegativity: | N/A |
Allen Electronegativity: | N/A |
Pauling Electropositivity: | 1.84 |
Reflectivity (%): | 58 |
Refractive Index: | N/A |
Chemical Properties
Electrons: | 42 |
---|---|
Protons: | 42 |
Neutrons: | 54 |
Electron Configuration: | [Kr] 4d5 5s1 |
Atomic Radius: | 139 pm |
Atomic Radius, non-bonded (Å): | 2.17 |
Covalent Radius: | 154±5 pm |
Covalent Radius (Å): | 1.46 |
Van der Waals Radius: | 200 pm |
Oxidation States: | 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, -1, -2 (strongly acidic oxide) |
Phase: | Solid |
Crystal Structure: | body-centered cubic |
Magnetic Ordering: | paramagnetic |
Electron Affinity (kJ·mol-1) | 72.146 |
1st Ionization Energy: | 684.32 kJ·mol-1 |
2nd Ionization Energy: | 1559.21 kJ·mol-1 |
3rd Ionization Energy: | 2617.67 kJ·mol-1 |
Identifiers
CAS Number: | 7439-98-7 |
---|---|
EC Number: | 231-107-2 |
MDL Number: | MFCD00003465 |
Beilstein Number: | N/A |
SMILES Identifier: | [Mo] |
InChI Identifier: | InChI=1S/Mo |
InChI Key: | ZOKXTWBITQBERF-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
PubChem CID: | 23932 |
ChemSpider ID: | 22374 |
Abundance
Earth - Total: | 2.35 ppm |
---|---|
Mercury - Total: | 1.81 ppm |
Venus - Total: | 2.47 ppm |
Earth - Seawater (Oceans), ppb by weight: | 10 |
Earth - Seawater (Oceans), ppb by atoms: | 0.64 |
Earth - Crust (Crustal Rocks), ppb by weight: | 1100 |
Earth - Crust (Crustal Rocks), ppb by atoms: | 230 |
Sun - Total, ppb by weight: | 9 |
Sun - Total, ppb by atoms: | 0.1 |
Stream, ppb by weight: | 0.8 |
Stream, ppb by atoms: | 0.008 |
Meterorite (Carbonaceous), ppb by weight: | 1200 |
Meterorite (Carbonaceous), ppb by atoms: | 250 |
Typical Human Body, ppb by weight: | 100 |
Typical Human Body, ppb by atom: | 7 |
Universe, ppb by weight: | 5 |
Universe, ppb by atom: | 0.1 |
History
Discovered By: | Carl Wilhelm Scheele |
---|---|
Discovery Date: | 1778 |
First Isolation: | Peter Jacob Hjelm (1781) |
Health, Safety & Transportation Information for Molybdenum
Molybdenum is toxic unless it is in small quantities. Safety data for Molybdenum and its compounds can vary widely depending on the form. For potential hazard information, toxicity, and road, sea and air transportation limitations, such as DOT Hazard Class, DOT Number, EU Number, NFPA Health rating and RTECS Class, please see the specific material or compound referenced in the Products tab. The below information applies to elemental (metallic) Molybdenum.
Safety Data | |
---|---|
Signal Word | Danger |
Hazard Statements | H228 |
Hazard Codes | F |
Risk Codes | 11 |
Safety Precautions | 9-16-36/37/39 |
RTECS Number | QA4680000 |
Transport Information | UN 3089 4.1/PG 2 |
WGK Germany | nwg |
Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling (GHS) | ![]() |
Review and Print SDS for Molybdenum Metal
SAFETY DATA SHEET
SECTION 1. IDENTIFICATION
Product Name: Molybdenum Metal
Product Number: All applicable American Elements product codes, e.g. MO-M-02, MO-M-03, MO-M-04, MO-M-05
CAS #: 7439-98-7
Relevant identified uses of the substance: Scientific research and development
Supplier details:
American Elements
1093 Broxton Ave. Suite 2000
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Tel: +1 310-208-0551
Fax: +1 310-208-0351
Emergency telephone number:
Domestic, North America +1 800-424-9300
International +1 703-527-3887
SECTION 2. HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION
Classification of the substance or mixture
Classification according to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008
The substance is not classified as hazardous to health or the environment according to the CLP regulation.
Classification according to Directive 67/548/EEC or Directive 1999/45/EC
Not applicable
Information concerning particular hazards for human and environment:
No information known.
Hazards not otherwise classified
No information known.
Label elements
Labelling according to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008
Not applicable
Hazard pictograms
Not applicable
Signal word
Not applicable
Hazard statements
Not applicable
WHMIS classification
Not controlled
Classification system
HMIS ratings (scale 0-4)
(Hazardous Materials Identification System)
HEALTH
FIRE
REACTIVITY
0
0
0
Health (acute effects) = 0
Flammability = 0
Physical Hazard = 0
Other hazards
Results of PBT and vPvB assessment
PBT: Not applicable.
vPvB: Not applicable.
SECTION 3. COMPOSITION/INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
Chemical characterization: Substances
CAS# Description:
7439-98-7 Molybdenum
Identification number(s):
EC number: 231-107-2
SECTION 4. FIRST AID MEASURES
Description of first aid measures
General information
No special measures required.
After inhalation
Seek medical treatment in case of complaints.
After skin contact
Generally the product does not irritate the skin.
After eye contact
Rinse opened eye for several minutes under running water. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor.
After swallowing
If symptoms persist consult doctor.
Information for doctor
Most important symptoms and effects, both acute and delayed
No further relevant information available.
Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed
No further relevant information available.
SECTION 5. FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
Extinguishing media
Suitable extinguishing agents
Special powder for metal fires. Do not use water.
For safety reasons unsuitable extinguishing agents
Water
Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture
If this product is involved in a fire, the following can be released:
Molybdenum oxides
Advice for firefighters
Protective equipment:
No special measures required.
SECTION 6. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
Not required.
Environmental precautions:
Do not allow product to reach sewage system or any water course.
Do not allow to penetrate the ground/soil.
Methods and material for containment and cleaning up:
Pick up mechanically.
Prevention of secondary hazards:
No special measures required.
Reference to other sections
See Section 7 for information on safe handling
See Section 8 for information on personal protection equipment.
See Section 13 for disposal information.
SECTION 7. HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling
Precautions for safe handling
Keep container tightly sealed.
Store in cool, dry place in tightly closed containers.
Information about protection against explosions and fires:
No special measures required.
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities
Storage
Requirements to be met by storerooms and receptacles:
No special requirements.
Information about storage in one common storage facility:
Do not store together with acids.
Store away from oxidizing agents.
Further information about storage conditions:
Keep container tightly sealed.
Store in cool, dry conditions in well sealed containers.
Specific end use(s)
No further relevant information available.
SECTION 8. EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION
Additional information about design of technical systems:
No further data; see section 7.
Control parameters
Components with limit values that require monitoring at the workplace: 7439-98-7 Molybdenum (100.0%)
PEL (USA) Long-term value: 5* 15** mg/m³ as Mo;*soluble compds., **insol.compds.:total dust
TLV (USA) Long-term value: 10* 3** mg/m³ as Mo; *inhalable fraction ** respirable fraction
EL (Canada) Long-term value: 3* 10** mg/m³ as Mo; *respirable **inhalable
EV (Canada) Long-term value: 10* 3** 0.5*** mg/m³ metal,insol.compd.:*inh;**resp;sol.compd.:***resp
Additional information: No data
Exposure controls
Personal protective equipment
General protective and hygienic measures
The usual precautionary measures for handling chemicals should be followed.
Maintain an ergonomically appropriate working environment.
Breathing equipment: Not required.
Recommended filter device for short term use:
Use a respirator with type N95 (USA) or PE (EN 143) cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. Risk assessment should be performed to determine if air-purifying respirators are appropriate. Only use equipment tested and approved under appropriate government standards.
Protection of hands: Not required.
Material of gloves
Nitrile rubber, NBR
Penetration time of glove material (in minutes) 480
Glove thickness 0.11 mm
Eye protection: Safety glasses
Body protection: Protective work clothing.
SECTION 9. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Information on basic physical and chemical properties
General Information
Appearance:
Form: Solid in various forms
Color: Dark grey
Odor: Not determined
Odor threshold: Not determined.
pH-value: Not applicable.
Change in condition
Melting point/Melting range: 2623 °C (4753 °F)
Boiling point/Boiling range: 4639 °C (8382 °F)
Sublimation temperature / start: Not determined
Flammability (solid, gaseous): Not determined.
Ignition temperature: Not determined
Decomposition temperature: Not determined
Auto igniting: Not determined.
Danger of explosion: Not determined.
Explosion limits:
Lower: Not determined
Upper: Not determined
Vapor pressure: Not applicable.
Density at 20 °C (68 °F): 10.22 g/cm³ (85.286 lbs/gal)
Relative density: Not determined.
Vapor density: Not applicable.
Evaporation rate: Not applicable.
Solubility in / Miscibility with Water: Not determined
Partition coefficient (n-octanol/water): Not determined.
Viscosity:
dynamic: Not applicable.
kinematic: Not applicable
Other information
No further relevant information available.
SECTION 10. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY
Reactivity
No information known.
Chemical stability
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Thermal decomposition / conditions to be avoided:
Decomposition will not occur if used and stored according to specifications.
Possibility of hazardous reactions
Reacts with strong oxidizing agents
Conditions to avoid
No further relevant information available.
Incompatible materials:
Acids
Oxidizing agents
Hazardous decomposition products:
Molybdenum oxides
SECTION 11. TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION
Information on toxicological effects
Acute toxicity:
The Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS) contains acute toxicity data for this substance.
LD/LC50 values that are relevant for classification: No data
Skin irritation or corrosion: May cause irritation
Eye irritation or corrosion: May cause irritation
Sensitization: No sensitizing effects known.
Germ cell mutagenicity:
The Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS) contains mutation data for this substance.
Carcinogenicity:
No classification data on carcinogenic properties of this material is available from the EPA, IARC, NTP, OSHA or ACGIH.
Reproductive toxicity:
The Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS) contains reproductive data for this substance.
Specific target organ system toxicity - repeated exposure: No effects known.
Specific target organ system toxicity - single exposure: No effects known.
Aspiration hazard: No effects known.
Subacute to chronic toxicity:
The Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS) contains multiple dose toxicity data for this substance.
Additional toxicological information:
To the best of our knowledge the acute and chronic toxicity of this substance is not fully known.
Carcinogenic categories
OSHA-Ca (Occupational Safety & Health Administration)
Substance is not listed.
SECTION 12. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
Toxicity
Aquatic toxicity:
No further relevant information available.
Persistence and degradability
No further relevant information available.
Bioaccumulative potential
No further relevant information available.
Mobility in soil
No further relevant information available.
Additional ecological information:
General notes:
Do not allow undiluted product or large quantities to reach ground water, water course or sewage system.
Avoid transfer into the environment.
Results of PBT and vPvB assessment
PBT: Not applicable.
vPvB: Not applicable.
Other adverse effects
No further relevant information available
SECTION 13. DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS
Waste treatment methods
Recommendation
Consult state, local or national regulations to ensure proper disposal.
Uncleaned packagings:
Recommendation:
Disposal must be made according to official regulations.
SECTION 14. TRANSPORT INFORMATION
UN-Number
DOT, ADN, IMDG, IATA
Not applicable
UN proper shipping name
DOT, ADN, IMDG, IATA
Not applicable
Transport hazard class(es)
DOT, ADR, ADN, IMDG, IATA
Class
Not applicable
Packing group
DOT, IMDG, IATA
Not applicable
Environmental hazards:
Not applicable.
Special precautions for user
Not applicable.
Transport in bulk according to Annex II of MARPOL73/78 and the IBC Code
Not applicable.
Transport/Additional information:
DOT
Marine Pollutant (DOT):
No
UN "Model Regulation":
-
SECTION 15. REGULATORY INFORMATION
Safety, health and environmental regulations/legislation specific for the substance or mixture
National regulations
All components of this product are listed in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Toxic Substances Control Act Chemical substance Inventory.
All components of this product are listed on the Canadian Domestic Substances List (DSL).
SARA Section 313 (specific toxic chemical listings)
Substance is not listed.
California Proposition 65
Prop 65 - Chemicals known to cause cancer
Substance is not listed.
Prop 65 - Developmental toxicity
Substance is not listed.
Prop 65 - Developmental toxicity, female
Substance is not listed.
Prop 65 - Developmental toxicity, male
Substance is not listed.
Information about limitation of use:
For use only by technically qualified individuals.
Other regulations, limitations and prohibitive regulations
Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) according to the REACH Regulations (EC) No. 1907/2006.
Substance is not listed.
The conditions of restrictions according to Article 67 and Annex XVII of the Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (REACH) for the manufacturing, placing on the market and use must be observed.
Substance is not listed.
Annex XIV of the REACH Regulations (requiring Authorisation for use)
Substance is not listed.
REACH - Pre-registered substances
Substance is listed.
Chemical safety assessment:
A Chemical Safety Assessment has not been carried out.
16. OTHER INFORMATION
Safety Data Sheet according to Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 (REACH). The above information is believed to be correct but does not purport to be all inclusive and shall be used only as a guide. The information in this document is based on the present state of our knowledge and is applicable to the product with regard to appropriate safety precautions. It does not represent any guarantee of the properties of the product. American Elements shall not be held liable for any damage resulting from handling or from contact with the above product. See reverse side of invoice or packing slip for additional terms and conditions of sale. COPYRIGHT 1997-2016 AMERICAN ELEMENTS. LICENSED GRANTED TO MAKE UNLIMITED PAPER COPIES FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY.
Molybdenum Isotopes
Molybdenum has 5 stable isotopes:
Nuclide | Isotopic Mass | Half-Life | Mode of Decay | Nuclear Spin | Magnetic Moment | Binding Energy (MeV) | Natural Abundance (% by atom) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
83Mo | 82.94874(54)# | 23(19) ms [6(+30-3) ms] | ß+ to 83Nb; ß+ + p to 82Zr | 3/2-# | N/A | 671.85 | - |
84Mo | 83.94009(43)# | 3.8(9) ms [3.7(+10-8) s] | ß+ to 84Nb | 0+ | N/A | 687.38 | - |
85Mo | 84.93655(30)# | 3.2(2) s | ß+ to 85Nb | (1/2-)# | N/A | 699.19 | - |
86Mo | 85.93070(47) | 19.6(11) s | ß+ to 86Nb | 0+ | N/A | 712.86 | - |
87Mo | 86.92733(24) | 14.05(23) s | ß+ to 87Nb; ß+ + p to 86Zr | 7/2+# | N/A | 723.73 | - |
88Mo | 87.921953(22) | 8.0(2) min | ß+ to 88Nb | 0+ | N/A | 737.4 | - |
89Mo | 88.919480(17) | 2.11(10) min | ß+ to 89Nb | (9/2+) | N/A | 747.34 | - |
90Mo | 89.913937(7) | 5.56(9) h | EC to 90Nb | 0+ | N/A | 761.01 | - |
91Mo | 90.911750(12) | 15.49(1) min | EC to 91Nb | 9/2+ | N/A | 770.95 | - |
92Mo | 91.906811(4) | Observationally Stable | - | 0+ | N/A | 783.69 | 14.84 |
93Mo | 92.906813(4) | 4.0(8)E+3 y | EC to 93Nb | 5/2+ | N/A | 791.77 | - |
94Mo | 93.9050883(21) | STABLE | - | 0+ | N/A | 800.78 | 9.25 |
95Mo | 94.9058421(21) | STABLE | - | 5/2+ | -0.9142 | 808.86 | 15.92 |
96Mo | 95.9046795(21) | STABLE | - | 0+ | N/A | 817.87 | 16.68 |
97Mo | 96.9060215(21) | STABLE | - | 5/2+ | -0.9335 | 824.08 | 9.55 |
98Mo | 97.9054082(21) | Observationally Stable | - | 0+ | N/A | 833.09 | 24.13 |
99Mo | 98.9077119(21) | 2.7489(6) d | ß- to 99Tc | 1/2+ | 0.375 | 839.31 | - |
100Mo | 99.907477(6) | 8.5(5)E+18 y | 2ß- to 100Ru | 0+ | N/A | 847.39 | 9.63 |
101Mo | 100.910347(6) | 14.61(3) min | ß- to 101Tc | 1/2+ | N/A | 852.67 | - |
102Mo | 101.910297(22) | 11.3(2) min | ß- to 102Tc | 0+ | N/A | 860.75 | - |
103Mo | 102.91321(7) | 67.5(15) s | ß- to 103Tc | (3/2+) | N/A | 868.83 | - |
104Mo | 103.91376(6) | 60(2) s | ß- to 104Tc | 0+ | N/A | 876.91 | - |
105Mo | 104.91697(8) | 35.6(16) s | ß- to 105Tc | (5/2-) | N/A | 884.98 | - |
106Mo | 105.918137(19) | 8.73(12) s | ß- to 106Tc | 0+ | N/A | 893.06 | - |
107Mo | 106.92169(17) | 3.5(5) s | ß- to 107Tc | (7/2-) | N/A | 891.83 | - |
108Mo | 107.92345(21)# | 1.09(2) s | ß- to 108Tc | 0+ | N/A | 899.9 | - |
109Mo | 108.92781(32)# | 0.53(6) s | ß- to 109Tc | (7/2-)# | N/A | 907.98 | - |
110Mo | 109.92973(43)# | 0.27(1) s | ß- to 110Tc; ß- + n to 109Tc | 0+ | N/A | 916.06 | - |
111Mo | 110.93441(43)# | 200# ms [>300 ns] | ß- to 111Tc | N/A | N/A | 914.82 | - |
112Mo | 111.93684(64)# | 150# ms [>300 ns] | ß- to 112Tc | 0+ | N/A | 922.9 | - |
113Mo | 112.94188(64)# | 100# ms [>300 ns] | ß- to 113Tc | N/A | N/A | 921.67 | - |
114Mo | 113.94492(75)# | 80# ms [>300 ns] | Unknown | 0+ | N/A | 929.74 | - |
115Mo | 114.95029(86)# | 60# ms [>300 ns] | Unknown | N/A | N/A | 928.51 | - |