Used as a reactive monomer in polymer synthesis, particularly in the production of functional polystyrene derivatives. Its hydroxyl group enables further chemical modifications, such as esterification or etherification, allowing integration into coatings, adhesives, and specialty resins. The vinyl group facilitates copolymerization with other vinyl monomers, enhancing crosslinking and improving thermal and mechanical properties of the resulting polymers. Also employed in the development of ion-exchange resins and as an intermediate in the synthesis of optical brighteners and fluorescent dyes.