## Common ground
Both options refer to molybdenum carbides, which are hard, wear-resistant compounds used primarily in industrial tooling and cutting applications.
## Options at a glance
**2849.90 – Unmixed molybdenum carbides**
- **Defining trait:** Contains only molybdenum carbide without any added metals or binders.
- **Typical examples:** Pure Mo₂C powder for research, catalysts, or raw material in metallurgy.
- **Best fit when:** The product is used as a base material, not yet formed into tools or mixed with other metals.
**3824.30 – Mixed with metallic binders (e.g., cobalt)**
- **Defining trait:** Combined with metallic binders (like cobalt) to form composite materials for tool tips.
- **Typical examples:** Cemented carbide inserts for machining, drill bits, or cutting tools (e.g., in HSS or PCD applications).
- **Best fit when:** The product is intended for use as a functional tool component, especially in metalworking.
## Key differences
| Feature | 2849.90 – Unmixed | 3824.30 – Mixed with binders |
|-----------------------|-------------------------------|------------------------------------|
| Composition | Pure molybdenum carbide | Mo₂C + metallic binder (e.g., Co) |
| Primary use | Raw material, research | Tool tips, cutting tools |
| Form | Powder or solid, not sintered | Pre-formulated for sintering |
## How to choose
- Is the product pure molybdenum carbide with no added metals? → 2849.90
- Is it mixed with cobalt or another metal binder for tool use? → 3824.30
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A product may appear to fit both if it contains molybdenum carbide and a small amount of binder, but the key is whether it's *intended* as a raw material (2849.90) or a tool-making precursor (3824.30). If unclear, prioritize based on **main function**: use 2849.90 for pure materials, 3824.30 for tool applications