As an analytical reagent to measure the amount of phosphates, silicates, arsenates and lead in aqueous solution (e.g. pigments, river water, sea water etc.)
In the production of molybdenum metal and ceramics, In the preparation of dehydrogenation and desulphurisation catalysts, In the fixing of metals,in electroplating,in fertilizers for crops.
As a negative stain in biological electron microscopy, typically in the 3–5% (vol/vol) concentration range and in the presence of trehalose; or at saturated concentration to perform cryo-negative staining.
For the detection of recreational drugs as a component of the Froehde reagent