Used in the synthesis of temperature-responsive polymers and hydrogels due to its lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior. Commonly employed in smart materials for drug delivery, tissue engineering, and controlled release systems. Its copolymerization with other monomers enables fine-tuning of thermal and mechanical properties in polymer networks. Also applied in chromatography media and sensors where reversible phase transitions are required. The stabilization with MEHQ allows safe handling and storage during industrial and laboratory use.