Crotonic acid is widely used in the production of polymers and resins, particularly in the manufacture of adhesives, coatings, and plastics. Its ability to polymerize makes it valuable for creating materials with specific properties like durability and chemical resistance.

In the pharmaceutical industry, it serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of various drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients. It is also utilized in the production of flavoring agents and fragrances due to its distinct chemical structure.

Additionally, crotonic acid finds application in the textile industry as a component in finishing agents to improve fabric properties. It is also used in research and development for studying organic reactions and as a building block for more complex chemical compounds.