Ammonium molybdate – an essential chemical compound in analysis, agriculture and industry

Ammonium molybdate is a colorless or white crystalline powder with unique chemical properties that plays a key role in many scientific and industrial fields. Thanks to its ability to form stable complexes and participate in redox reactions, this compound is used both in analytical laboratories and in the production of fertilizers, catalysts or industrial pigments.

Vichemic ‘s range of ammonium molybdate is available in high purity, ready for laboratory and process applications.

Basic chemical data

• Chemical name: Ammonium molybdate(VI)
• Sum formula: (_{NH4)6Mo7O24-4H2O}
• CAS number: 12054-85-2
• EC no: 234-722-4
• Appearance: white crystalline powder
• Solubility: well soluble in water
• Decomposition temperature: above 190 °C

Application of ammonium molybdate in industry and science

1. analytical chemistry – classical tests for the detection of phosphates and arsenates

One of the most important applications of ammonium molybdate is the detection of phosphates and arsenates in environmental samples. The reaction with ^PO43- ions forms a blue phosphomolybdate complex, which can be determined colorimetrically. This is a classic reaction, used since the 19th century in qualitative chemistry and water analysis.

2. Fertilizer production – source of molybdenum

Molybdenum is a micronutrient essential for proper plant growth, especially in legumes. Ammonium molybdate is an easily absorbed form of this element and is used as a component of micronutrient fertilizers in agriculture. It assists in atmospheric nitrogen fixation processes by papillary bacteria.

3. Pigment industry – synthesis of molybdenum bile

In the paint and varnish industry, ammonium molybdate is used as a precursor to inorganic pigments, such as so-called “molybdenum yellows” (mixtures with cadmium and lead sulfides). They are characterized by high durability and intense color.

4. Catalysts and corrosion inhibitors

Ammonium molybdate is also used in the production of catalysts, including in hydrotreating reactions. It is sometimes used as a corrosion inhibitor in water systems, especially in refrigeration systems. It acts as a non-toxic alternative to chromates.

5. Research material in coordination chemistry

In structural and inorganic chemistry, ammonium molybdate is used to synthesize multicore complexes – so-called transition metal clusters. Its structure allows the formation of polyanions, such as Keggin-type and Anderson-type molybdates.

Security and storage

Ammonium molybdate is a relatively safe compound, although like any chemical reagent it requires caution:

• It is not flammable or explosive
• May cause eye and respiratory irritation when dust is inhaled
• Store in tightly closed containers, away from moisture

The use of personal protective equipment and reading the SDS data sheet is recommended before each use of the product.

Scientific curiosities

• Molybdenum is an element necessary for the functioning of enzymes such as nitrogenase, responsible for fixing atmospheric nitrogen
• Ammonium molybdate shows photoluminescence under UV exposure
• It is used in synthesis reactions of so-called polymetallic compounds in nanotechnology

Ammonium molybdate on offer at Vichemic

The product offered by Vichemic – Ammonium Molybdate meets the highest standards of laboratory purity. It is ideal for both analytical research and industrial and agricultural applications. Thanks to its high solubility and reactivity, it is a versatile raw material with high utility value.

Also check out the full range in the pure reagents category or browse other Vichemic chemical products.