In this study, a new high-temperature hydrogen-reduction (HTHR) process was applied for the preparation of a low-oxygen Mo powder whereby MoO3 was used as a raw material. The HTHR-prepared Mo powder showed a low oxygen concentration of 1580 ppm, which was obtained at a reduction temperature of 1500 degrees C. From the oxidation-resistance test of the low-oxygen Mo powder, the oxidation resistance of the 1500 degrees C-prepared low-oxygen Mo powder is outstanding. The improved oxidation resistance is derived from the reduced oxygen concentration that can be diffused to the surface where it forms an oxidation layer on the Mo powder. When compared with the conventional hydrogen reduction process, the HTHR process provided an improved oxidation resistance as well as a low oxygen concentration. (C) 2016 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.