Used primarily in the production of cadmium-based batteries, especially nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) rechargeable batteries, where it serves as the negative electrode material. It also finds use in electroplating processes to provide corrosion-resistant coatings on metals. In some specialized applications, it acts as a precursor in the synthesis of other cadmium compounds used in pigments and stabilizers for plastics. Due to the toxicity of cadmium, its use is increasingly regulated and being phased out in many consumer applications.