1. Metal Treatment

• Alloying agent: Molybdenum, derived from sodium molybdate, is used as an alloying element in the production of high-strength steels and alloys. These molybdenum-containing steels are used in the aerospace, automotive, and construction industries for applications requiring enhanced strength, resistance to corrosion, and high-temperature stability.
• Corrosion inhibitor: Sodium molybdate is commonly used as a corrosion inhibitor in industrial cooling water systems, boilers, and metalworking fluids. It helps protect metals (especially steel) from corrosion by forming a protective layer on metal surfaces, preventing rust and other forms of damage. It is particularly effective in systems where chloride-based inhibitors might be unsuitable.
• Electroplating agent: Sodium molybdate is used in electroplating processes as a source of molybdenum. It helps create molybdenum coatings on various metal surfaces, improving their resistance to wear, corrosion, and high temperatures. This application is valuable in the automotive, aerospace, and electronics industries.

2. Chemical Synthesis

• Catalyst and intermediate: Sodium molybdate serves as an important catalyst in various chemical reactions. It is used in the production of certain chemicals like molybdenum disulfide, which is widely used as a lubricant. It is also used in the synthesis of other molybdenum-based compounds for various applications in the chemical industry.
• Solvent: In analytical chemistry, sodium molybdate is used in the determination of various elements, especially phosphorus. It is part of the reagent systems used in colorimetric methods to measure the concentration of specific ions in solution, such as in the measurement of phosphates in water samples.

3. Agrochemicals

• Fertilizer additive: Sodium molybdate is used in agriculture as a micronutrient in fertilizers. Molybdenum is essential for plant growth, particularly for nitrogen fixation in legumes. Sodium molybdate is commonly added to fertilizers to provide plants with the necessary amount of molybdenum for healthy growth, especially in soils that are deficient in this essential nutrient.

4. Lubricants & Automobiles

• Corrosion inhibitor: Used in coolants and antifreeze formulations to prevent corrosion in automotive engines.Acts as a friction modifier and anti-wear agent in lubricants.Helps in metal surface passivation, protecting parts like radiators, pumps, and engines from rust and scale. 

5. Fabric Solutions

• Dyeing agent: Sodium molybdate is sometimes used in the textile industry as a mordant in dyeing processes. It helps fix certain dyes to fabrics, ensuring the dyes bind well to the fibers and produce vibrant, long-lasting colors.

6. Water Treatment

• Scale inhibitor: Sodium molybdate is used in water treatment to prevent the formation of scale in cooling towers and other water-handling systems. By inhibiting scale formation, it helps maintain the efficiency of these systems and reduces maintenance needs.