Used primarily as a dye intermediate in the production of azo dyes, which are widely applied in textile, leather, and paper industries for coloring purposes. It also serves as a photosensitive compound in certain imaging and photolithography processes, where it aids in creating precise patterns on surfaces. Additionally, it finds application in research as a chemical reagent for studying photochromic and thermochromic behaviors in materials. Its ability to undergo reversible structural changes under light or heat makes it useful in developing smart materials and sensors.