This chemical is primarily used as a selective complexing agent in various chemical and analytical applications. It is particularly effective in binding with specific metal ions, such as potassium and sodium, due to its crown ether structure. This property makes it valuable in ion-selective electrodes for detecting and measuring these ions in solutions. Additionally, it is employed in separation processes, such as liquid-liquid extraction, to selectively isolate target ions from complex mixtures. Its ability to form stable complexes also finds use in supramolecular chemistry, where it aids in the study of host-guest interactions and molecular recognition. Furthermore, it is utilized in research and development for designing advanced materials and sensors that require precise ion recognition capabilities.