Widely used as a chelating agent in analytical chemistry for the determination of metal ions, particularly in spectrophotometric analysis. It forms colored complexes with various metals, enabling their detection and quantification in environmental, biological, and industrial samples.

Applied in the extraction and separation of trace metals due to its selective binding properties. It is also utilized in the development of sensors and indicators for metal ion detection in research and quality control processes.

In biochemistry, it assists in studying metal-protein interactions and metal ion transport mechanisms. Its sensitivity and specificity make it valuable in detecting heavy metals in water and soil, contributing to environmental monitoring and pollution control efforts.