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Molybdenum nitride

Molybdenum nitride (Mo₂N) is a binary inorganic compound composed of molybdenum and nitrogen. It belongs to the family of transition metal nitrides and exhibits properties that make it useful in applications such as a catalyst and a coating material.

Properties[edit]

Mo₂N typically exists in multiple crystalline forms, including hexagonal (hcp) and cubic (fcc) structures.^[1] Its properties can vary depending on factors such as synthesis method, stoichiometry, and crystal structure. General properties of molybdenum nitride include:

• High melting point
• Good thermal stability
• High electrical conductivity
• Catalysis in various chemical reactions, including ammonia synthesis and hydrodeoxygenation reactions
• Mechanical hardness and wear resistance, making it suitable for coating applications

Synthesis[edit]

Molybdenum nitride can be synthesized through various methods,^[2][3] including:

• Direct nitridation: Molybdenum metal can react with nitrogen gas at elevated temperatures to form Mo₂N.
• Ammonolysis: Molybdenum precursors, such as molybdenum oxides or molybdates, can be treated with ammonia gas or ammonia-containing solutions to produce molybdenum nitride.
• Chemical vapor deposition: Molybdenum nitride thin films and coatings can be deposited onto substrates using CVD techniques, such as thermal CVD or plasma-enhanced CVD.

Applications[edit]

Molybdenum nitride is utilized as a catalyst in various industrial processes, including ammonia synthesis. Molybdenum nitride exhibits catalytic activity in the Haber-Bosch process for ammonia synthesis, where it serves as an alternative to conventional iron-based catalysts.^[4]

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