Reduction function, corrosive agents

The compound is monomeric but it also exists with dimers and oligomers. These compounds are also used as antioxidants and corrosion inhibitors. Molybdenum disulfide is also reported to have antiwear capabilities as well as to function as a friction reduction agent. 

During metallic corrosion, the rate of oxidation equals the rate of reduction. Thus, a nondestructive chemical reaction, reduction, would proceed simultaneously at the cathode. In most cases, hydrogen gas is produced on the cathode. When the gas layer insulates the cathode from the electrolyte, current flow stops, and the cell is polarized. However, oxygen or some other depolarizing agent is usually present to react with the hydrogen, which reduces this effect and allows the cell to continue to function. 

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