Used primarily as an ion-pairing agent in chromatography, particularly for ion-pair HPLC, and as a surfactant in various industrial and laboratory applications. It aids in the solubilization of hydrophobic compounds in aqueous solutions, making it valuable in chemical synthesis and analytical chemistry. It is also employed in the preparation of micellar systems for studying protein interactions and membrane dynamics. Additionally, it serves as an electrolyte additive in capillary electrophoresis to enhance separation efficiency. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is utilized in drug formulation to improve the stability and bioavailability of active ingredients. Its role in detergents and cleaning agents is notable for its ability to reduce surface tension and improve cleaning effectiveness.