2,6-Dichlorobiphenyl is primarily used in research and development settings as a reference compound in environmental studies. It serves as a model chemical to investigate the behavior, degradation, and impact of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in ecosystems. Researchers utilize it to study the persistence of PCBs in soil, water, and air, as well as their potential bioaccumulation in organisms. Additionally, it is employed in analytical chemistry to develop and validate methods for detecting and quantifying PCBs in environmental samples. Its role in understanding PCB contamination and remediation strategies makes it a valuable tool in environmental science and toxicology.