Calcium chloride dihydrate is a white, crystalline, highly hygroscopic salt valued for its strong moisture absorption, high solubility, and exothermic dissolution. It is used across industrial, agricultural, and laboratory settings as a desiccant, de-icing agent, brine component, and calcium source. Because it dissolves readily in water while generating heat, it is effective in dust control, concrete acceleration, and refrigeration brine systems.

Its precise hydration and consistent purity also make it useful in food processing (where permitted), laboratory reagents, and specialty chemical manufacture. Grade selection should be based on chloride tolerance, impurity profile, and moisture sensitivity of the end-use.