Molybdenum

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Molybdenum (Mo) is a silver-grey metallic element with an unusually high melting point (2610°C). It is an important alloying element in iron, steels and specialty alloys and is used frequently in combination with other ferrous additives. The molybdenum content in these products ranges from a fraction of 1% to as much as 20%. A commonly used refractory (heat-resistant) metal, molybdenum is also used in catalysts, dyes and pigments. In IRON AND STEEL manufacture, the addition of molybdenum imparts hardness, strength and corrosion resistance and improves weldability. The principal mineral source of molybdenum, molybdenite (molybdenum disulphide, MoS2), may be used as a solid lubricant and as an additive to greases and oils.

In Canada, molybdenum is produced in BC where there is one primary molybdenum mine and several copper mines where molybdenum is produced as a by-product. Canada is the fourth-largest producer of molybdenum in the world, behind the US, China and Chile. Canada produces close to 7 million kg of molybdenum annually.

See also MINERAL RESOURCES.

Author L. DUCHESNE and D.G. FONG Revised: G. BOKOVAY


Links to Other Sites
Global InfoMine
Dig into this extensive online resource about minerals and the mining industry. Features the latest news and information about Canadian and international mining companies, mineral commodities, mining properties, and much more. Check the "Dictionary" link at the bottom of the page.

Life of a Rock Star
This site tells the story of an extraordinary group of scientists who tramped, paddled and rolled across Canada in the nineteenth century to study the geology of Canada's varied terrain.

A History of Mining and Mineral Exploration in Canada
Click on the cover image to view an online copy of a comprehensive report that traces the emergence of Canada's mineral industry. From Natural Resources Canada.

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