Molybdenum

Molybdenum is a metallic element frequently used in alloys with stainless steel and other metals. It enhances the metal's toughness, high temperature strength and corrosion resistance.

Although steel is its single biggest market, molybdenum is also widely used in the manufacture of super alloys, lubricants, chemicals and electronic products. It can be found in a vast range of steel equipment, from high speed tools such as drills and saw blades to pipe work for the offshore oil and gas industry. 

Molybdenum oxide and ferromolybdenum, derived from molybdenum, are used primarily in the steel industry for corrosion resistance, strengthening and heat resistance. Molybdenum chemicals are used in a number of diverse applications such as lubricants, additives for water treatment, feedstock for the production of pure molybdenum metal, and catalysts used for petroleum refining. Pure molybdenum metal powder products are used in a number of diverse applications, such as lighting, electronics, and specialty steel alloys. 

One of molybdenum's most valuable features is that, unlike other heavy metals, its compounds are of low toxicity. This makes it an especially suitable alloy material for manufacturing the vessels used in the pharmaceutical, food and chemical industries.

Molybdenum demand is heavily dependent on the worldwide steel industry, which comprises approximately 80% of molybdenum demand.