Widely used as a Lewis acid catalyst in organic synthesis, particularly effective in promoting carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom bond formations. It is especially useful in Friedel-Crafts acylations, glycosidation reactions, and Diels-Alder cyclizations due to its strong acidity and stability in various solvents. Exhibits high catalytic activity under mild conditions, often allowing for lower reaction temperatures and shorter reaction times. Its water tolerance makes it suitable for reactions in aqueous or mixed solvent systems. Also employed in polymerization reactions and as a catalyst in the synthesis of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals where high selectivity and yield are required.