Molybdenum sulfide

Explosiveness

Link to relevant study record(s)

Reference

Endpoint:

explosive properties of explosives

Data waiving:

study scientifically not necessary / other information available

Justification for data waiving:

the study does not need to be conducted because there are no chemical groups present in the molecule which are associated with explosive properties

Description of key information

MoS₂ is void of any chemical structures commonly associated with explosive properties. The reaction behaviour of MoS₂, which on an industrial scale is oxidised to technical grade MoO₃ is well understood, and no explosive properties have been observed (see also justification for classification or non-classification).

Key value for chemical safety assessment

Explosiveness:

non explosive

Justification for classification or non-classification

This substance is void of any chemical structures commonly associated with explosive properties, such as metal peroxides, peroxo-acid-anions, azides, and halogen oxides. The reaction/oxidation behaviour of MoS₂ has also been studied extensively by researchers (see Risdon, 2003 and references therein). Whereas MoS₂ oxidises to MoO₃ and whereas this reaction is exothermic, it requires a high activation energy and only takes place at a measurable rate above 300 °C. In industry this process is used to produce technical grade MoO₃ from molybdenite ore (MoS₂). This technical process takes place under controlled conditions in large multiple hearth furnaces at ca. 500-600 °C, to achieve complete oxidation. Based on the well understood reaction characteristics of MoS₂ and on long-term industrial experience, MoS₂ does not require hazard classification as explosive.