Used as a crosslinking agent in polymer chemistry, particularly in the synthesis of hydrogels and biocompatible networks. Its carboxylic acid groups allow for easy functionalization and conjugation with amines or alcohols, making it valuable in drug delivery systems and tissue engineering scaffolds. Also serves as a building block in the preparation of specialty polyamides and polyurethanes, where it contributes flexibility and controlled hydrophilicity to the final material. Additionally, employed in the development of metal ion chelators due to its ability to coordinate with various cations through nitrogen and oxygen sites.