Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) where nitrile and ester functionalities are required for further chemical transformations. Its structure allows for selective modifications, making it valuable in constructing complex heterocyclic compounds. Also employed in the preparation of functional polymers and specialty materials due to its rigid aromatic backbone and reactive functional groups. Commonly utilized in research settings for designing novel compounds with potential biological activity.