Used in the preparation of cadmium-containing semiconductors and optoelectronic materials. Employed in the synthesis of cadmium chalcogenide nanocrystals for use in quantum dots, which have applications in display technologies and biological imaging. Serves as a source of cadmium ions in chemical vapor deposition processes. Also utilized in some specialized electrochemical cells and as a reagent in organic and inorganic research laboratories. Due to toxicity and environmental concerns, handling is restricted and requires strict safety controls.