Used primarily as a chelating agent in various chemical processes, it effectively binds with metal ions, making it valuable in the extraction and separation of metals like uranium and thorium. Its strong affinity for specific metals is utilized in analytical chemistry for spectrophotometric determinations. Additionally, it serves as a reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of complex molecules. In research, it is employed to study metal-ligand interactions and coordination chemistry due to its stable complex-forming ability. Its applications extend to the field of nuclear chemistry, where it aids in the purification and recovery of radioactive materials.