Used in the synthesis of biodegradable polymers and functional materials due to its long aliphatic chain and carboxylic acid groups. The compound serves as a monomer in producing polyesters and copolyesters with controlled hydrophilicity and degradation rates. It is also employed in the development of specialty surfactants and lubricants where moderate polarity and chain length contribute to improved performance. Additionally, it finds use in research for creating macrocyclic structures and bio-based coatings with tailored surface properties.