Mo(CO)6

Molybdenum hexacarbonyl (Mo(CO)₆) is an organometallic compound consisting of a molybdenum center bonded to six carbon monoxide ligands; it functions as a ceramic precursor and catalyst material rather than a structural ceramic in the traditional sense. Primary industrial applications include catalysis (hydroformylation, hydrogenation, carbonylation reactions), thin-film deposition for semiconductor and photovoltaic devices, and synthesis of molybdenum-containing materials. Engineers select this compound for its ability to deposit pure molybdenum coatings at lower temperatures than alternative precursors and for its role in homogeneous catalysis where selectivity and activity are critical; it is also of significant research interest as a precursor for molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) catalysts used in hydrogen evolution reactions.