What Molybdenum Is Used For

The initial application of molybdenum metal was the use of lead wires in incandescent light bulbs, recorded at the beginning of the 20th century. Molybdenum was selected owing to its stability and strength at elevated temperatures. Since this initial use, scientists and engineers have discovered precise properties that qualify molybdenum for many applications. Some applications exploit its strength and stability at high temperatures, as was the case with the first lamp wires.

Molybdenum possesses additional properties that render it attractive for applications beyond traditional high‑temperature components, including:
high thermal conductivity
high electrical conductivity
low coefficient of thermal expansion
resistance to attack by molten metal,
compatibility with most glass compositions
resistance to thermal shock
high stiffness and strong adhesion to glass used in lighting and electronic devices

Given that many of its properties are attractive to engineers and designers, molybdenum metal and its alloys are employed in the following fields:
Lighting
Electrical and electronic devices
Medical devices
Material processing facilities
High‑temperature furnaces and associated equipment
Thermal spray coatings
Components for aerospace and defence

Applications in these fields require specific combinations of properties. Molybdenum, its alloys and composite materials incorporating molybdenum metal, such as Molybdenum Foils, offer specific combinations of thermal and electrical conductivity and controlled thermal expansion. They also exhibit high‑temperature strength and creep resistance, vapour pressure stability, environmental stability, and wear resistance. This brochure assists the reader in understanding why the material is applied across a variety of fields. It also provides detailed information on machining and manufacturing techniques for molybdenum and its alloys.