Molybdenum
A critical constituent in the production of high-strength steel, molybdenum is renowned for its performance at high temperatures.
Molybdenum (Mo)
Molybdenum is used largely in steelmaking. When employed as an alloying agent, molybdenum enhances strength, hardenability, weldability, toughness, and corrosion resistance. Molybdenum is almost always extracted as a by-product of other mineral ores, particularly copper. China is by far the largest producer and also holds the largest reserves.
Current operations are generally not associated with major ESG issues. Nevertheless, civil society groups and the media occasionally cover environmental issues associated with the molybdenum supply chain, notably in Latin America and China.
Main uses and applications
Molybdenum is a transition metal with several characteristics that make it valuable, particularly its performance at high temperatures. Molybdenum has one of the highest melting points of all elements. Its thermal conductivity is also among the strongest of all elements.i
The main use of molybdenum is in steel alloys to enhance strength, hardenability, weldability, toughness, and corrosion resistance.ii It is estimated that 23% of mined ore is destined to make molybdenum–grade stainless steel, and a further 56% is used for construction steel, tool and high-speed steel and cast iron. The rest is employed in specialised applications, such as in nickel alloys, and as a refractory metal in applications such as catalysts, lubricants, and pigments.iii
Key Industries
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Auto
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Construction
Key Countries
Top Producer
China
Top Reserves
China
Supply Chain Risk
TDi Sustainability's data rates Molybdenum's association with the following issues as high or very high:
Supply Chain Concentration Risk
Country Governance Risks
Molybdenum's association with countries experiencing:
Violence and Conflict
Weak Rule of Law
Poor Human Rights
Poor Environmental Governance