Molybdenum
Our primary Molybdenum mine in Questa, NM produces high quality Molybdenite concentrates (MoS2). The MoS2 concentrates are roasted to produce technical grade Moly Oxide that is used primarily to improve properties of stainless and alloy steels.

The iron and steel industries consume 75% of the Molybdenum produced. Molybdenum is primarily used as an alloying element in the production of alloy, stainless and tool steels and cast iron. Most high-strength steels contain some amount of Molybdenum with certain steels containing up to 8% Molybdenum. Steel producers add molybdenum as oxide or ferromolybdenum to increase high-temperature performance, resist sulfide stress cracking, improve corrosion resistance, and improve wear resistance.

Purified Molybdenum disulfide has fantastic lubricating properties due, in part, to its layered structure. Molybdenum based lubricants allow steel structures to move fluidly against each other, especially at high temperatures and pressures.

Combinations of Molybdenum and water or oil soluble materials yield excellent cutting and metalworking fluids. Engine protection lubricants are significant applications in this industry.

There is a wide range of chemical products which utilize pure Molybdenum in various forms. Chemical products account for about 15-20% of global Molybdenum consumption. The unique characteristics of Molybdenum are valued in such products as hydroprocessing catalysts, rust inhibitors, pigments and fertilizer additives.