This chemical is primarily utilized in the synthesis of advanced organic materials and coordination polymers due to its ability to form stable complexes with metal ions. Its dihydroxy and diacetic acid functional groups make it a versatile building block for constructing frameworks with specific properties, such as porosity and catalytic activity. It is also employed in the development of sensors and adsorbents, particularly for detecting or capturing metal ions in environmental and industrial applications. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the preparation of bioactive compounds and pharmaceutical intermediates, leveraging its reactive sites for further chemical modifications.