Molybdenum Trioxide
London Chemicals & Resources Ltd (LCR) is an international distributor, stockist and supplier of industrial inorganic chemicals including our role as a Molybdenum Trioxide distributor.
We hold several agencies and serve a global customer base both directly and via a network of local agents. LCR is committed to providing efficient service and competitive pricing to all customers.
What is Molybdenum Trioxide?
Molybdenum trioxide is a chemical compound with the formula MoO3. This compound is produced on the largest scale of any molybdenum compound. It is an intermediate in the production of molybdenum metal. It is also an important industrial catalyst. Molybdenum trioxide occurs as the rare mineral molybdite.
Preparation and principal reactions
MoO3 is produced industrially by roasting molybdenum disulfide, the chief ore of molybdenum:
- 2 MoS2 + 7 O2 → 2 MoO3 + 4 SO2
The laboratory synthesis of the dihydrate entails acidification of aqueous solutions of sodium molybdate with perchloric acid:
- Na2MoO4 + H2O + 2 HClO4 → MoO3(H2O)2 + 2 NaClO4
The dihydrate loses water readily to give the monohydrate. Both are bright yellow in colour.
Molybdenum trioxide dissolves slightly in water to give “molybdic acid”. In the base, it dissolves to afford the molybdate anion.
Uses of Molybdenum Trioxide
Molybdenum trioxide is used to manufacture molybdenum metal, which serves as an additive to steel and corrosion-resistant alloys. The relevant conversion entails treatment of MoO3 with hydrogen at elevated temperatures:
- MoO3 + 3 H2 → Mo + 3 H2O
It is also a component of the co-catalyst used in the industrial production of acrylonitrile by the oxidation of propene and ammonia.
Because of its layered structure and the ease of the Mo(VI)/Mo(V) coupling, MoO3 is of interest in electrochemical devices and displays. Molybdenum trioxide has also been suggested as a potential anti-microbial agent, e.g., in polymers. In contact with water, it forms H+ ions that can kill bacteria effectively.
The following are some of our available Molybdenum (Mo) chemicals:
- Ammonium Dimolybdate
- Ammonium Heptamolybdate
- Molybdenum Trioxide
- Molybdic Acid
- Sodium Molybdate
Molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) is a versatile inorganic compound with a wide range of applications across various industries. Here are some key uses and properties:
Manufacturing and Industrial Uses: MoO3 is primarily used in the production of molybdenum metal, which is an important alloying agent in steel and other metals. It enhances the strength and corrosion resistance of steel, making it ideal for use in high-stress environments such as aircraft parts and high-temperature furnace components12.
Catalyst in Chemical Processes: Due to its low reactivity and high thermal stability, molybdenum trioxide serves as a catalyst in various chemical processes, including petroleum refining, coal conversion, and polymer production. It is also used in the production of acrylonitrile by the oxidation of propene and ammonia12.
Electronics and Optoelectronics: MoO3 nanoparticles are used in electronics manufacturing due to their desirable electronic and optical properties. They are particularly useful in the development of optoelectronic components such as organic photovoltaics (OPVs) and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), where they form the basis of hole transport layers4.
Solid Lubricant: Molybdenum trioxide is used as a solid lubricant in greases, especially in high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. It helps prevent wear and galling in bearings, gears, and joints2.
Functional Coatings: The compound is used in functional coatings due to its electronic properties, which are beneficial in applications like printed electronics and semiconductor junctions4.
Molybdenum trioxide’s versatility and stability make it a valuable component in many industrial applications, from enhancing metal properties to serving as a catalyst and electronic material.
Working Around The World
Working closely with several producer principals around the world, quality, consistency and reliability are all important watchwords for LCR ensuring that our customers return again and again. Raw materials are supplied for a wide range of applications including the battery, catalyst, ceramic, fertiliser, glass, plating, refinery, superalloy and other industries. Our materials are usually packed in drums or bags in accordance with UN, CLP and other applicable local and international regulations.
We deliver to our customers in quantities ranging from single bags or drums to thousands of tonnes. Transportation by air, sea, rail and truck can be arranged and all deliveries are made according to latest INCOTERMS.
Experienced, Knowledgeable Team
Our experienced, friendly and knowledgeable staff at LCR are familiar with relevant legislation, transport procedures and documentation including REACH, SDSs and ADR.
LCR’s range includes inorganic chemicals, minerals and noble ferroalloys, click here for the full range.
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If you would like to speak to someone directly about our services relating to our role as a Molybdenum Trioxide, please call us on +44 (0)20 7183 0651 or visit our contact page, or contact us via LinkedIn and we will be happy to answer any of your questions.
