Ammonium Molybdate

An important source of molybdenum is the molybdenite mineral, found all over the world however most commercial sources exist in the Americas and China.  Molybdenite is obtained from both primary and by-product mine operations. Copper mining for example can yield substantial quantities of by-product molybdenite as a concentrate. In production this concentrate can be roasted to yield ‘technical’ molybdenum oxide. Then through a sublimation or wet chemical process a ‘pure’ molybdenum trioxide can be processed,  Ammonium molybdate is the bi-product of this process.  

Ammonium molybdate is a white, water-soluble solid that is used as a pigment, in the agriculture industry as a fertiliser and as a fabric fire retarder. It is used in the production of molybdenum wire, in photography, ceramics and as a reagent in both analytical chemistry and the petrochemical industry. 

In fertiliser systems, molybdenum is an essential micronutrient though required by plants in very minute amounts. Molybdenum supports the essential metabolism of nitrogen and synthesis of protein. Soil that has no molybdenum at all cannot support plant life!

Ammonium molybdate is 100% water soluble and has a higher molybdenum content than sodium molybdate.  Ammonium molybdate is compatible in many mixed fertiliser nutrient formulations, easy to apply and importantly easy to clean with no sticky residues.  

For over 30 years Bisley has been on the ground with producers around the world, we understand molybdenum and our role is to use our expertise to drive optimal commercial and technical value for our customers.  We look forward to discussing it further with yo