Used in thermoelectric devices due to its high efficiency in converting heat to electricity, especially in cadmium telluride (CdTe) compounds. Widely applied in solar energy as a key component of thin-film photovoltaic cells, offering low-cost and scalable solar panel production. Added to alloys to improve machinability in copper and steel, enhancing durability and performance in industrial components. Employed in the semiconductor industry for specialized electronic and optoelectronic applications. Also used in infrared detectors and certain types of phase-change memory devices. In the glass industry, it produces dark gray or black glass for sunglasses and special lenses due to its light absorption properties. Limited use in catalysts and vulcanization of rubber, though less common.