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Ammonium molybdate is a white, crystalline inorganic compound composed of ammonium ions (NH₄⁺) and molybdate ions (MoO₄²⁻), most commonly encountered as ammonium heptamolybdate tetrahydrate ((NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄·4H₂O).
Ammonium molybdate is highly soluble in water and is widely used in analytical chemistry for detecting phosphates, silicates, and arsenates, forming characteristic colored complexes.
Ammonium molybdate also plays a critical role in catalyst production, corrosion inhibition, ceramics, and the synthesis of other molybdenum compounds.
CAS number: 12054-85-2
EC number: 234-722-4
Chemical formula: (NH4)6Mo7O24
Molar mass: 1163.9 g/mol
Synonyms: Ammonium molybdate, 13106-76-8, Diammonium molybdate, Diammonium tetraoxomolybdate(2-), EINECS 236-031-3, diammonium tetraoxomolybdate, (NH4)2MoO4, Molybdic acid (H2MoO4), diammonium salt, Molybdate (MoO42-), diammonium, (T-4)-, DTXSID5051654, CHEBI:91249, Molybdate (MoO42-), diammonium, (beta-4)-, bisammonium dioxido(dioxo)molybdenum, Ammonium molybdate (USP), Ammonium molybdate [USP], AMMONIUM MOLYBDATE (VI), UNII-OGI154X474, Diammonium tetraoxomolybdate(2), MOLYBDIC ACID (85%), DTXCID9030206, DTXSID5036896, Molybdic acid, hexaammonium salt, UNII-21Y68J178E, HSDB 1802, AMMONIUM MOLYBDATE [INCI], Molybdate (Mo7O24), hexaammonium, EINECS 234-722-4, Molybdate (Mo7O246-), hexaammonium, TF 2000, MOLYBDENUM (AS AMMONIUM MOLYBDATE), AI3-62945, Ammonium molybdate (VI) ((NH4)6Mo7O24), EC 234-722-4, Ammonium molybdate hydrate ((NH4)6Mo7O24.4H2O), Molybdate(Mo7O24(6-)), hexaamonium, tetrahydrate, Molybdate (Mo7O24(6-)), hexaammonium, tetrahydrate, Ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate ((NH4)6Mo7O24.4H2O), Molybdic acid (H6Mo7O24), hexaammonium salt, tetrahydrate, 234-320-9, 236-031-3, 601-720-3, 603-021-9, 12027-67-7, 12054-85-2, 12501-45-0, ammonium heptamolybdate, ammonium molibdate, ammonium molibdenum oxide, ammonium molybdate (usp monograph), ammonium molybdate [usp monograph], ammonium molybdate [vandf], ammonium molybdate [who-dd], ammonium molybdate anhydrous, ammonium molybdate(vi), ammonium molybdate(vi) [hsdb], ammonium molybdate(vi) [mi], ammonium molybdate(vi) tetrahydrate, ammonium molybdate(vi) tetrahydrate [mi], ammonium paramolybdate tetrahydrate, einecs 234-320-9, hexaammonium molybdate, hexaammonium molybdate tetrahydrate, molybdate (mo7o246-), ammonium (1:6), molybdate (mo7o246-), ammonium, hydrate (1:6:4), molybdenum (as ammonium molybdate) [vandf], molybdic acid, ammonium salt, ogi154x474, Molybdic acid, diammonium salt, 140899-16-7, diazanium dioxido-dioxo-molybdenum, diazanium;dioxido(dioxo)molybdenum, MFCD00011596, Molybdate (MoO42-), ammonium (1:2), (T-4)-, AmmoniumMolybdate, ammonium orthomolybdate, Diammonium molybdate ((NH4)2MoO4), Ammonium molybdate ((NH4)2MoO4), diammonium dioxomolybdenumbis(olate), Q473576
Ammonium molybdate is a white, crystalline inorganic compound composed of ammonium ions (NH₄⁺) and molybdate ions (MoO₄²⁻).
Ammonium molybdate is highly soluble in water, forming clear solutions.
Ammonium molybdate is widely used in chemical analysis, particularly in the detection of phosphates, silicates, and arsenates, where it forms characteristic colored precipitates.
Due to its stability and ease of handling, Ammonium molybdate is also utilized in ceramics, metal finishing, catalysts, and as a precursor for the production of molybdenum compounds.
Ammonium molybdate refers to a group of chemical compounds containing ammonium (NH₄⁺) and molybdate (MoO₄²⁻) ions, most commonly found as ammonium heptamolybdate tetrahydrate ((NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄·4H₂O).
Ammonium molybdate appears as a white to slightly yellowish crystalline solid with excellent solubility in water, producing clear, colorless solutions.
Ammonium molybdate is an important intermediate in the preparation of other molybdenum-containing compounds and materials.
Ammonium molybdate is widely employed in analytical chemistry for the quantitative and qualitative detection of phosphates, silicates, and arsenates, where it reacts to form characteristic yellow precipitates or complex structures.
Ammonium molybdate plays a critical role in the manufacture of molybdenum catalysts, used in petroleum refining and chemical synthesis, and serves as a source of molybdenum in the production of pigments, corrosion inhibitors, and metal surface treatments.
In addition to industrial uses, ammonium molybdate is applied in biological and environmental sciences, especially in colorimetric assays for measuring phosphate concentrations in biochemical samples and water bodies.
Ammonium molybdate exhibits relatively low toxicity but can be harmful in large amounts, requiring careful handling and storage in dry, cool conditions away from incompatible substances.
Ammonium molybdate's stability, versatility, and reactivity make it an essential material across a wide range of scientific and industrial disciplines.
Ammonium molybdate have 3 different forms.
These are; Ammonium dimolybdate ((NH4)2Mo2O7), Ammonium tetramolybdate ((NH4)2Mo4O13.2H2O) and Ammonium heptamolybdate ((NH4)6Mo7O24.4H2O).
Ammonium heptamolybdatetrahydrate is the same as ammonium heptamolybdate because there is 4H₂O in their compounds.
Ammonium molybdate can be prepared by dissolving molybdenum trioxide in ammonia.
Ammonium molybdate is the inorganic compound whose chemical formula is (NH4)6Mo7O24, normally encountered as the tetrahydrate.
Ammonium molybdate is a colorless solid, although "ammonium molybdate" can also refer to ammonium orthomolybdate, (NH4)2MoO4, and several other compounds.
Ammonium molybdate is one of the more common molybdenum compounds.
Ammonium molybdate is used to prepare phosphomolybdates, to measure the amount of phophates, silicates, arsenates, lead in pigments, river water and sea water.
Ammonium molybdate is also used as a negative stain in electron microscopy, in photogrphy, ceramics, paints.
Ammonium molybdate is used in the production of molybdenum.
Ammonium molybdate is used in the preparation of dehydrogenation and desulphurization catalysts.
Market Overview of Ammonium Molybdate:
The global ammonium molybdate market is experiencing steady growth, driven by its diverse applications across multiple industries.
In 2024, the market was valued at approximately USD 370.8 million and is projected to reach USD 523.1 million by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% during the forecast period.
Key Market Drivers:
Agricultural Demand:
Ammonium molybdate serves as a vital micronutrient in fertilizers, enhancing plant growth and crop yields.
The increasing global population and the consequent rise in food demand have led to higher adoption rates of ammonium molybdate in agriculture.
Chemical Industry Applications:
Ammonium molybdate is extensively used as a catalyst in chemical reactions, notably in the petroleum industry for desulfurization processes.
The growing demand for cleaner fuels and stringent environmental regulations are pushing refineries to adopt more efficient catalysts, thereby boosting the demand for ammonium molybdate.
Technological Advancements:
Innovations in production techniques and the development of eco-friendly manufacturing processes are contributing to market growth.
Companies are focusing on sustainable production methods to meet environmental regulations and consumer expectations.
Regional Insights:
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to dominate the ammonium molybdate market during the forecast period.
Rapid industrialization, coupled with the growth of the electronics and pharmaceutical industries in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, are major contributors to this dominance.
Market Segmentation:
By Purity:
Purity ≥99%
Purity ≥98%
By Application:
Molybdenum Products Production
Chemical Reagents
Molybdenum Catalysts
Applications of Ammonium Molybdate:
Ammonium molybdate has been used to prepare phosphomolybdates.
(NH4)2MoO4 was used as an analytical reagent for quantitative analysis of phosphates, silicates, arsenates and lead in their aqueous solutions.
At saturated concentration, (NH4)2MoO4 was used to perform cryo-negative staining and as a negative stain in biological electron microscopy.
Ammonium molybdate was used in study of crystallisation of cell-free-expressed membrane proteins.
Ammonium molybdate has been used to prepare phosphomolybdates.
Analytical Chemistry:
Ammonium molybdate is extensively used in colorimetric and gravimetric analyses, particularly for the detection and quantification of phosphate (PO₄³⁻), arsenate (AsO₄³⁻), and silicate (SiO₄⁴⁻) ions.
Ammonium molybdate forms yellow molybdo complexes (e.g., ammonium phosphomolybdate), which are essential in spectrophotometric methods for determining trace levels in environmental and biological samples.
Catalyst Production:
Ammonium molybdate serves as a precursor for molybdenum-based catalysts, especially in hydrodesulfurization and dehydrogenation processes in the petrochemical industry.
These catalysts improve fuel quality by removing sulfur and other impurities.
Ceramics and Pigments:
Ammonium molybdate is used in the ceramic industry for coloring and glazing applications, as it contributes to the formation of durable and brightly colored coatings.
Ammonium molybdate is also a component in molybdate-based pigments.
Corrosion Inhibition:
Ammonium molybdate is employed in metal treatment and corrosion inhibition, particularly in water systems.
Molybdate ions help prevent corrosion by forming protective oxide layers on metal surfaces.
Fertilizers and Agriculture:
In controlled amounts, ammonium molybdate acts as a micronutrient fertilizer, supplying molybdenum, which is vital for plant nitrogen metabolism, particularly in legumes where it is needed for nitrogen fixation by root nodule bacteria.
Reagent in Biochemical Assays:
Ammonium molybdate is used in biochemical phosphate assays, such as the Fiske–SubbaRow method, to estimate inorganic phosphate in biological samples (e.g., serum, urine, cell extracts).
Textile and Printing Industry:
Ammonium molybdate is used as a mordant in the dyeing process and in the printing industry for preparing certain specialty inks and colorants.
Glass and Enamel Industry:
In the glass industry, Ammonium molybdate is added to impart certain desirable optical and thermal properties.
Ammonium molybdate is also used in enamels to enhance their adherence and durability.
Research and Synthesis:
Ammonium molybdate is frequently used in academic and industrial laboratories as a starting material for synthesizing a variety of molybdenum compounds, including molybdenum trioxide (MoO₃) and molybdenum metal.
Uses of Ammonium Molybdate:
Ammonium molybdate is a versatile inorganic compound widely used across various scientific and industrial fields.
In analytical chemistry, Ammonium molybdate is most notably used for the colorimetric determination of phosphate, arsenate, and silicate ions, where it reacts to form molybdenum blue or yellow molybdophosphate complexes, making it essential in water quality testing and biochemical assays.
Ammonium molybdate is also employed as a starting material for the production of other molybdenum compounds, including molybdenum trioxide (MoO₃) and metallic molybdenum, which are important in metallurgy and catalyst preparation.
In agriculture, ammonium molybdate serves as a micronutrient fertilizer, supplying molybdenum to crops that require it for nitrate reduction and nitrogen fixation.
Additionally, Ammonium molybdate finds use in the ceramics and pigment industries due to its stability and contribution to color development.
In corrosion control, Ammonium molybdate is used in cooling water systems and metal surface treatments as a molybdate-based corrosion inhibitor, helping to prevent oxidative degradation of metal surfaces.
These wide-ranging uses make ammonium molybdate a valuable chemical in both laboratory and industrial contexts.
Ammonium molybdate is used as an analytical reagent to measure the amount of phosphates, silicates, arsenates and lead in aqueous solution (e.g. pigments, river water, sea water etc.)
Ammonium molybdate is used in the production of molybdenum metal and ceramics
Ammonium molybdate is used in the preparation of dehydrogenation and desulfurization catalysts
Ammonium molybdate is used in the fixing of metals
Ammonium molybdate is used in electroplating
Ammonium molybdate is used in fertilizers for crops.
Ammonium molybdate is used as a negative stain in biological electron microscopy, typically in the 3–5% (vol/vol) concentration range and in the presence of trehalose; or at saturated concentration to perform cryo-negative staining.
Ammonium molybdate is used for the detection of recreational drugs as a component of the Froehde reagent
Usage Areas of Ammonium Molybdate:
Usage in The Formulation of Plant Nutrition Products:
Ammonium molybdate is used as molybdenum trace element source in the formulation of powder and liquid plant nutrition products.
Agriculture:
Ammonium molybdate is used in agricultural areas and especially in liquid and powder leaf and drip fertilizers, because of containing high amount of molybdenum trace element and nitrogen.
Ammonium molybdate is used to grow broccoli and cauliflower seeds, especially in molybdenum deficient soils.
Industrial Applications:
Ammonium molybdate is used in photography sector and the production of ceramic products, in the adjustment of fabric color pigments and in the petrochemical industry as a catalyst.
Industry Uses:
Other (specify)
Intermediates
Process regulators
Consumer Uses:
Other (specify)
Intermediates
Process regulators
Related compounds of Ammonium Molybdate:
Potassium heptamolybdate, also obtained as the tetrahydrate, is very similar to the ammonium salt.
Production of Ammonium Molybdate:
The production of ammonium molybdate typically begins with the oxidative roasting of molybdenite ore (MoS₂) to produce molybdenum trioxide (MoO₃).
This is achieved by heating the ore in the presence of air at high temperatures, during which sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is released as a byproduct.
The resulting MoO₃ is then leached with aqueous ammonia, forming a clear solution of ammonium molybdate.
To purify this solution, impurities such as iron, copper, and other transition metals are precipitated out using hydrogen sulfide or similar reagents.
Following purification, the solution is subjected to controlled crystallization, either through slow evaporation or by adding organic solvents such as ethanol or methanol, which lowers solubility and promotes crystal formation.
The final product, usually in the form of Ammonium molybdate crystals, is filtered, washed, and dried.
For applications requiring exceptionally high purity, a recrystallization step may be included.
Modern production methods also emphasize environmental sustainability by recycling solvents, reducing acid use, and treating waste effluents to minimize ecological impact.
General Manufacturing Information of Ammonium Molybdate:
Industry Processing Sectors:
Other (requires additional information)
All Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing
Structure of Ammonium Molybdate:
Ammonium molybdate was first analyzed crystallographically by Lindqvist, but has been reanalyzed.
All Mo centers are octahedral. Some oxide ligands are terminal, some doubly bridging, and a few are triply bridging ligands.
Synthesis of Ammonium Molybdate:
Ammonium molybdate is easily prepared by dissolving molybdenum trioxide in an excess of aqueous ammonia and evaporating the solution at room temperature.
While the solution evaporates, the excess of ammonia escapes.
This method results in the formation of six-sided transparent prisms of the tetrahydrate of Ammonium molybdate.
Solutions of Ammonium molybdate react with acids to form molybdic acid and an ammonium salt.
The pH value of a concentrated solution will lie between 5 and 6.
History of Ammonium Molybdate:
The history of ammonium molybdate is closely tied to the discovery and development of molybdenum chemistry in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Molybdenum itself was first recognized as a distinct element in 1778 by Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele, who successfully isolated molybdic acid from the mineral molybdenite (MoS₂).
Building on Scheele’s findings, the Danish chemist Peter Jacob Hjelm reduced molybdic acid to metallic molybdenum in 1781.
As molybdenum chemistry evolved, researchers in the 19th century discovered that dissolving molybdic acid or molybdenum trioxide in aqueous ammonia produced stable salts—leading to the identification and synthesis of various ammonium molybdates.
These compounds quickly became important reagents in classical inorganic analytical chemistry, especially in phosphate and arsenate detection.
With the rise of industrial chemistry in the 20th century, ammonium molybdate gained widespread application in catalysis, agriculture, ceramics, and metallurgy, cementing its role as a fundamental compound in both research and industry.
Over time, Ammonium molybdate's production has shifted from small-scale laboratory synthesis to modern industrial methods that prioritize efficiency, purity, and environmental safety.
Handling and Storage of Ammonium Molybdate:
Ammonium molybdate should be handled in well-ventilated areas while wearing appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, safety goggles, and lab coats.
Avoid generating dust, inhaling vapors, or contact with skin and eyes.
Containers must be kept tightly closed when not in use.
Storage should be in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from incompatible materials such as strong acids, strong bases, and oxidizing agents.
Protect the substance from moisture and sources of ignition.
Reactivity and Stability of Ammonium Molybdate:
Ammonium molybdate is chemically stable under normal storage and handling conditions.
However, Ammonium molybdate may decompose when heated to produce ammonia (NH₃) and molybdenum oxides (e.g., MoO₃).
Ammonium molybdate is incompatible with strong acids, which may release toxic gases such as nitrogen oxides or ammonia.
Ammonium molybdate may also react with strong oxidizers or reducing agents, potentially leading to hazardous conditions.
Under normal environmental conditions, Ammonium molybdate does not undergo hazardous polymerization.
First Aid Measures of Ammonium Molybdate:
Inhalation:
Move the person to fresh air.
If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen and seek medical attention.
Skin Contact:
Wash the affected area immediately with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
Get medical help if irritation persists.
Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for at least 15 minutes.
If irritation or redness occurs, consult an ophthalmologist.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel.
Seek immediate medical attention.
Firefighting Measures of Ammonium Molybdate:
Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Use water spray, carbon dioxide (CO₂), dry chemical powder, or foam.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
Thermal decomposition can produce ammonia gas, nitrogen oxides, and molybdenum oxides.
Protective Equipment for Firefighters:
Wear full protective gear and a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) to avoid inhalation of fumes.
Special Precautions:
Avoid inhaling combustion gases.
Cool exposed containers with water to prevent rupture.
Accidental Release Measures of Ammonium Molybdate:
Personal Precautions:
Evacuate area. Avoid dust formation.
Wear suitable protective equipment including gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection.
Environmental Precautions:
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not allow product to enter drains or watercourses.
Methods for Cleanup:
Sweep or scoop spilled material carefully into suitable, labeled waste containers for disposal.
Avoid generating dust.
Ventilate the area.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) of Ammonium Molybdate:
Engineering Controls:
Use local exhaust ventilation to minimize airborne exposure.
Keep concentrations below occupational exposure limits if available.
Personal Protective Equipment:
Eyes/Face:
Safety goggles or face shield.
Skin:
Chemical-resistant gloves and lab coat.
Respiratory:
Dust mask or NIOSH-approved respirator if dust or aerosols are generated.
Hygiene Measures:
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during use.
Remove and wash contaminated clothing before reuse.
Identifiers of Ammonium Molybdate:
CAS number: 12054-85-2
EC number: 234-722-4
Hill Formula: H₂₄Mo₇N₆O₂₄ * 4 H₂O
Chemical formula: (NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄ * 4 H₂O
Molar Mass: 1235.86 g/mol
HS Code: 2841 70 00
Linear Formula: (NH4)2MoO4
CAS Number: 13106-76-8
Molecular Weight: 196.01
EC Number: 236-031-3
MDL number: MFCD00011596
UNSPSC Code: 12352302
PubChem Substance ID: 24856791
NACRES: NA.23
form: solid
solubility: ethanol: insoluble(lit.)
CAS Number:
12027-67-7
12054-85-2 (tetrahydrate)
ChemSpider: 23786
ECHA InfoCard: 100.031.553
EC Number: 234-320-9
PubChem CID: 71306766
UNII:
21Y68J178E
OGI154X474 (tetrahydrate)
CompTox Dashboard (EPA): DTXSID40858865 DTXSID5036896, DTXSID40858865
InChI:
InChI=1S/7Mo.6H3N.24H2O/h;;;;;;;6*1H3;24*1H2
Key: QGAVSDVURUSLQK-UHFFFAOYSA-N
InChI=1/7Mo.6H3N.24H2O/h;;;;;;;6*1H3;24*1H2
Key: QGAVSDVURUSLQK-UHFFFAOYAC
SMILES:
[NH4+].[NH4+].[NH4+].[NH4+].[NH4+].[NH4+].[O-][Mo](=O)(=O)[O-].[O-][Mo](=O)(=O)[O-].[O-][Mo](=O)(=O)[O-]
[NH4+].[NH4+].[NH4+].[Mo]3479%12[O+]1[Mo]25([O-])([O-])O[Mo]1%10([O-])([O-])O[Mo]%11([O-])([O-])(O[Mo]8([O-])([O-])(O[Mo]6([O-])([O-])(O[Mo]([O-])([O-])(O2)(O3)[O++]456)[O+]78)[O++]9%10%11)O%12.[NH4+].[NH4+].[NH4+]
Properties of Ammonium Molybdate:
Chemical formula: (NH4)6Mo7O24
Molar mass: 1163.9 g/mol
1235.86 g/mol (tetrahydrate)
Appearance: white solid
Density: 2.498 g/cm3
Melting point: ~90 ˚C (loses water molecule)
190 °C (decomp.)
Solubility in water: 65.3 g / 100 ml (tetrahydrate)
Molecular Weight: 196.03 g/mol
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 2
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 4
Rotatable Bond Count: 0
Exact Mass: 197.953810 Da
Monoisotopic Mass: 197.953810 Da
Topological Polar Surface Area: 82.3 Ų
Heavy Atom Count: 7
Complexity: 62.2
Isotope Atom Count: 0
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 3
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes
Density: 2.498 g/cm3 (20 °C)
Melting Point: 90 °C Elimination of water of crystallisation
pH value: 5.3 (50 g/l, H₂O, 20 °C)
Bulk density: 800 kg/m3
Solubility: 400 g/l (20 °C)
Quality Level: 100
Assay: 99.98% trace metals basis
form: solid
technique(s): electron microscopy: suitable
impurities: ≤250.0 ppm Trace Metal Analysis
solubility: ethanol: insoluble(lit.)
SMILES string: N.N.O[Mo](O)(=O)=O
InChI: 1S/Mo.2H3N.2H2O.2O/h;2*1H3;2*1H2;;/q+2;;;;;;/p-2
InChI key: LZRXBDCICLHKEN-UHFFFAOYSA-L
Specifications of Ammonium Molybdate:
Assay (precipitative titration): 99.3 - 101.8 %
Identity: passes test
Insoluble substances: ≤ 0.005 %
Chloride (Cl): ≤ 0.002 %
Nitrate (NO₃): passes test
Phosphate (PO₄): ≤ 0.0005 %
Phosphate, Arsenate, Silicate (as PO₄): passes test
Sulphate (SO₄): ≤ 0.02 %
Heavy metals (as Pb): ≤ 0.001 %
K (Potassium): ≤ 0.005 %
Mg (Magnesium): ≤ 0.005 %
Na (Sodium): ≤ 0.005 %
Magnesium and alcali salts: ≤ 0.02 %
Names of Ammonium Molybdate:
IUPAC name:
Ammonium docosaoxoheptamolybdate(6–)
Other names:
Ammonium molybdate
Ammonium paramolybdate
Related compounds of Ammonium Molybdate:
Molybdenum(VI) oxide
Molybdic acid
Other anions:
Ammonium orthomolybdate
Ammonium dimolybdate
Other cations:
Potassium paramolybdate
