Used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals due to its reactive anhydride group, enabling easy formation of esters and amides. Commonly employed as a building block in organic synthesis, especially in the development of active ingredients requiring controlled release or specific stereochemistry. Also utilized in polymer chemistry to modify resin properties, enhancing thermal stability and cross-linking efficiency. Its steric hindrance from the dimethyl structure influences reaction selectivity, making it valuable in fine chemical manufacturing.