Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of vat dyes, particularly for producing blue and green shades in cotton and other cellulosic fibers. It contributes to the lightfastness and washfastness of the final dye, making it valuable in textile dyeing. Also employed in the production of specialty pigments for inks and coatings where high stability is required. Its nitro and hydroxyl functional groups enable strong electron withdrawal, enhancing color development and binding to fiber substrates.