Molybdenum Processing

molybdenum processing, preparation of the ore for use in various products.

Molybdenum (Mo) is a white platinum-like metal with a melting point of 2,610 °C (4,730 °F). In its pure state, it is tough and ductile and is characterized by moderate hardness, high thermal conductivity, high resistance to corrosion, and a low expansion coefficient. When alloyed with other metals, molybdenum promotes hardenability and toughness, augments tensile strength and creep resistance, and generally promotes uniform hardness. Small quantities of molybdenum (of 1 percent or less) significantly improve the abrasion resistance, anticorrosive properties, and high-temperature strength and toughness of the matrix material. Molybdenum is therefore a vital addition agent in the manufacture of steels and highly sophisticated nonferrous superalloys.

Since the molybdenum atom has the same character as that of tungsten but only about half its atomic weight and density, it advantageously replaces tungsten in alloy steels, allowing the same metallurgical effect to be achieved with half as much metal. In addition, two of its outer electron rings are incomplete; this allows it to form chemical compounds where the metal is di-, tri-, tetra-, penta-, or hexa-valent, making possible a wide variety of molybdenum chemical products. This also is the essential factor in its considerable catalytic properties.