The metallic element molybdenum, due to its unique properties, is widely used across multiple industries. The most common uses include:
Steel Industry: Molybdenum is primarily used in the steel industry, accounting for approximately 80% of total consumption. It is primarily used in the production of alloy steel, stainless steel, tool steel, and high-speed steel, significantly improving the steel's strength, toughness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and heat resistance. For example, molybdenum-containing stainless steel is often used in chemical equipment and marine facilities, where corrosion resistance is extremely high.
Chemical Industry: Molybdenum is also crucial in the chemical industry, accounting for approximately 10% of total consumption. Molybdenum compounds are among the most widely used catalysts, widely used in the chemical, petroleum, plastics, and textile industries. Additionally, compounds such as ammonium molybdate can be used as pigments and preservatives.
Electrical and Electronics Industry: Molybdenum also has excellent electrical conductivity and high-temperature resistance, making it widely used in the electrical and electronics industry. For example, it is widely used in the manufacture of key components such as electron tubes and transistor gates and anodes. In printed circuit boards, molybdenum can be used as a metallization layer, helping to improve the performance and reliability of the boards. Furthermore, molybdenum is a key material in the production of CIGS (copper indium gallium selenide) thin-film solar cells.
Molybdenum also has important applications in aerospace, military, agriculture, and other fields. With the rapid advancement of technology, the application areas of molybdenum are further expanding.
