Perchlorate is commonly used as an oxidizer in solid propellants, munitions, fireworks, airbag initiators for vehicles, matches and signal flares (EPA FFRRO 2005; ITRC 2005). It is also used in some electroplating operations and found in some disinfectants and herbicides
Magnesium perchlorate appears as a white crystalline solid. Strongly absorbs water from air and dissolves in it. Accordingly, used as a regenerable drying agent.
It is used as desiccant to dry gas or air samples, but is no longer advised, for use as a general desiccant, due to hazards inherent in perchlorates.
It is dried by heating at 220 °C under vacuum. Magnesium perchlorate is produced by the reaction of magnesium hydroxide and perchloric acid.