Can aluminum be used as a fuel?

Aluminum can be used as a fuel in certain applications, particularly in the form of aluminum powder. It has a high energy density and burns at high temperatures, making it suitable for solid rocket propellants and thermite reactions. However, it is not commonly used as a traditional fuel like gasoline or coal due to its reactivity and the challenges in handling and storage. Aluminum combustion also produces aluminum oxide, which can be harmful to the environment if not managed properly.