The diverse applications of molybdenum demonstrate its essential role in modern industry. This page explains how the element contributes to innovation and technological progress in various sectors and supports the development of a more durable and sustainable future.

Metallurgy:

• Molybdenum serves as an important alloying element in various steels, increasing their strength, corrosion resistance and high‐temperature stability.
• Manufacturers use molybdenum extensively when producing stainless steel, tool steel and other alloys for construction, aerospace and automotive applications.

Catalysts and Chemical Processes:

• Molybdenum compounds act as catalysts in chemical reactions and play a central role in sectors such as petrochemicals and refining.
• Molybdenum‐based catalysts contribute to process efficiency in operations such as desulphurisation in the oil and gas industry.

Electronics and Technology:

• Molybdenum’s electrical and thermal conductivity properties render it valuable in the electronics sector.
• Engineers use molybdenum in the manufacture of semiconductor components, thin‐film transistors and as a back contact material in solar cells.

Aerospace and Defence:

• Manufacturers select molybdenum alloys for aerospace components, given that they withstand high temperatures and resist corrosion.
• Engineers incorporate the metal in producing essential parts for aircraft, rockets and defence systems.

Medical Applications:

• Molybdenum-99, a radioactive isotope of molybdenum, is employed in nuclear medicine for diagnostic imaging.
• Molybdenum-based alloys are used in the manufacture of medical devices and implants.

Lubricants and High-Performance Materials:

• Engineers apply molybdenum disulphide as a solid lubricant under conditions of high load and elevated temperature.
• Researchers use molybdenum-based materials in high-performance ceramics and coatings.