Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its structure allows for selective introduction of the tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) protecting group in nitrogen-containing compounds, particularly in the development of nitrogen mustards used in cancer therapy. The chloroethyl groups can be further modified to form aziridinium ions, which are highly reactive alkylating agents. This property makes the compound valuable in the preparation of cytotoxic agents and in research related to DNA cross-linking molecules. It also serves in the design of prodrugs where controlled release of active amines is required.