Used as a crosslinking agent in sol-gel processes to produce zirconia-based ceramics and coatings with high thermal stability and mechanical strength. Employed in the synthesis of catalysts and catalyst supports due to its ability to form stable metal oxide frameworks. Applied in surface treatment of materials to enhance adhesion, corrosion resistance, and wear properties. Also utilized in the preparation of zirconium-containing hybrid materials for optical and electronic applications. Its aqueous solubility allows for easy integration into liquid-phase deposition techniques such as dip-coating and spin-coating.