Used primarily as a surfactant in polymerization processes, especially in the production of fluoropolymers and fluorinated elastomers. Its strong surface-active properties help stabilize emulsions and improve dispersion of fluorinated monomers. Also employed in specialty coatings and firefighting foams due to its ability to lower surface tension and enhance water and oil repellency. Shows utility in electronics manufacturing for cleaning and etching processes where fluorinated compounds are required. Due to environmental persistence concerns, its use is being phased out in some applications in favor of shorter-chain alternatives.