Cyclododecanone is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of nylon-12, a high-performance engineering thermoplastic. It undergoes Beckmann rearrangement to form laurolactam, which is then polymerized to produce nylon-12. This polymer is valued for its flexibility, impact resistance, and low moisture absorption, making it suitable for automotive fuel lines, cable sheathing, and pneumatic tubing.

It is also used in the synthesis of specialty chemicals such as fragrances and agrochemicals due to its stable cyclic structure. In perfumery, derivatives of cyclododecanone contribute musk-like notes and are used to enhance the longevity of scents. Additionally, it serves as a building block in organic synthesis for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals where a medium-sized aliphatic ring system is required.