Widely used in the production of phthalic anhydride, which is a key precursor for plastics and dyes. Also serves as a raw material for synthesizing insecticides like carbaryl. Historically common in mothballs due to its vapor action against moths, though this use has declined due to toxicity concerns. Employed in the synthesis of surfactants and dye intermediates. Occasionally used as a soil fumigant and in some industrial cleaning processes. Its derivatives are important in the manufacture of certain resins and synthetic tanning agents.