Used as a reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in the formation of carbamate and urea derivatives through reactions with amines. It acts as a pyridyl-activating group, facilitating nucleophilic substitution under mild conditions. Commonly applied in peptide chemistry and the preparation of functionalized heterocycles for pharmaceutical research. Its ability to release pyridinone upon reaction makes it useful in traceless linking strategies in solid-phase synthesis. Also employed in the development of sensors and catalysts due to its coordination properties with metal ions.