Used as a reagent in organic synthesis and organometallic chemistry, particularly as a source of chromium(0) bound to benzene for regioselective functionalization of aromatic rings. The tricarbonylchromium group acts as a directing and protecting moiety, shielding one face of the benzene ring to enable controlled substitution on the opposite face, enhancing stereoselectivity and specificity in product formation. It serves as a precursor in the preparation of other chromium-based complexes and is employed in stoichiometric and catalytic transformations involving carbon–carbon bond formation. After reaction, the chromium can be readily removed to yield the desired arene product. Its stability and controlled reactivity make it useful in laboratory-scale reactions where mild reducing conditions are required. Commonly utilized in research settings to synthesize complex biomolecules or pharmaceuticals requiring precise structures and high purity, as well as to study metal-ligand interactions and reaction mechanisms in organochromium chemistry.