Calcium hydride is widely used as a desiccant for drying solvents and gases due to its strong affinity for water. It reacts with moisture to form calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas, making it effective in removing trace water from organic solvents. In the chemical industry, it serves as a reducing agent in various reactions, particularly in the production of metals from their oxides. Additionally, it is employed in hydrogen generation for portable applications, as it releases hydrogen gas upon contact with water. In metallurgy, it is used to remove oxygen and nitrogen from molten metals, improving their quality. Calcium hydride also finds application in the synthesis of complex hydrides and as a drying agent in laboratory settings.