In this study, alpha-MnMoO4 nanoparticles were prepared by combustion synthesis method. The structural, morphological and electrical characteristics of alpha-MnMoO4 were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and impedance spectroscopy. The structural parameters were calculated from XRD pattern which confirmed the monoclinic structure of alpha-MnMoO4. FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy results revealed the presence of MoO4 surface functional groups. The TEM and HRTEM investigations evidenced the presence of homogeneous distribution of spherical nanoparticles and high crystallinity of alpha-MnMoO4. Moreover, the SAED patterns clearly revealed the polycrystalline nature of the material. The conductivity measurements had inferred the semiconducting property of alpha-MnMoO4 and the maximum conductivity of 1.94 x 10(-6) S/cm was attained at 540 degrees C. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.