Aluminum oxide is used as an abrasive, dosimeter, filler of choice for plastics, ingredient in sunscreen and cosmetics. Aluminum oxide flakes are also used in paint for providing reflective decorative effects. In laboratories it is widely used as a medium for chromatographic purifications. It is used in the production of aluminum (Hall–Héroult process), alumina nanofibers, cutoff tools, and sandpaper. It serves as a catalyst for several reactions of industrial importance, including converting alcohols into alkenes, decomposing hydrazine, drying of gases, and converting hydrogen sulfide into sulfur in refineries (Claus Process). It is also used in integrated circuits, compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), sodium vapor lamps, hip replacements, CD/DVD polishing, superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDS), insulation devices, and as a support for many popular catalysts (for example, in Ziegler-Natta polymerizations).

This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.