Argon is used: 
1. as a carrier gas in sputtering, plasma etching and ion implantations, and as a blanket atmosphere in crystal growth
2. for ICP spectroscopy (Inductively Coupled Plasma spectroscopy)
3. in atomic absorption spectrometry as a blanket gas in the graphite furnace
4. as a shielding gas for arc welding
5. as an insulation gas in high-efficiency multi-pane windows to improve thermal insulation
6. in the iron and steel industry to prevent oxidation of molten metals and alloys and for degassing and desulphurization of molten steel and iron baths
7. to displace oxygen in the top of intravenous drug containers, extending product shelf-life
8. for wine preservation to eliminate air by the heavier argon, to prevent oxidation and extend the product quality for opened bottles and barrels