Molybdenum Sulfate (MoS2) is a black or blue gray crystalline substance that has a hexagonal crystal structure. The hexagonal structure of MoS2 prevents contact between the surfaces of different metals. This allows for a greater load-carrying capacity and less friction.

Its physical properties include high temperature stability, good radiation stability, low electrical conductivity, and a low friction coefficient. MoS2 is used as a catalyst for desulfurization in petroleum refineries.

Experiments have been conducted to study the effects of molybdenum toxicity. They have been performed on animals, such as heifers, chickens, and chicks. In many cases, the use of molybdenum in the diet has depressed the growth of the animals. Some heifers developed achromatrichia. These heifers lost nervous control of their hindquarters.

In the rat experiment, sulfate was shown to overcome the growth inhibition caused by Molybdenum. However, it is only effective against Molybdenum induced growth inhibition.

Some of the heifers in the trial received diets containing from 5 to 50 ppm of molybdenum. A few of the heifers developed achromatrichia, which was corrected when copper was added to the diet.

The heifers in the trial were fed in an open lot during the winter months. They were also fed in a stall during the summer. During this time, the levels of molybdenum in their blood were not measured.

Molybdenum toxicity was found to be influenced by cage type and dietary zinc oxide. Four heifers in the trial developed achromatrichia, which is corrected when copper is added to the diet.

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