Used as a flux in soldering and metal surface treatment to remove oxides and promote metal joining. Acts as a catalyst in organic synthesis, especially in reactions like the Friedel-Crafts acylation. Employed in the production of zinc oxide and other zinc compounds. Commonly used in textiles and paper as a fireproofing agent. Applied in laboratories as a reagent for dehydration and as a Lewis acid in various chemical transformations. Also found in some antiseptic and wood preservative formulations due to its antimicrobial properties.