Sodium Chlorate has broad industrial and commercial applications. It is primarily used to produce chlorine dioxide for pulp bleaching, and can be electrolyzed to manufacture perchlorate compounds. It acts as a non-selective herbicide to control weeds including morning glory, Canada thistle, Johnson grass and bamboo, and also serves as a defoliant and desiccant. Additionally, it is applied for chemical oxygen generation for emergency oxygen supply in commercial aircraft. Industrially, it is produced by electrolysis of hot sodium chloride solution, and also used in the production of inks, cosmetics, paper and leather.