Used primarily as a specialty reagent in organic synthesis, this compound serves as a nitrating agent and nitrosation source in the preparation of nitrogen-containing compounds. It enables the introduction of nitroso groups into active methylene compounds and secondary amines, facilitating the formation of oximes, nitrosamines, and heterocyclic structures. Its selective reactivity under mild conditions makes it valuable in pharmaceutical research for modifying complex molecules, particularly in the development of bioactive intermediates. Due to its sensitivity, it is typically handled in controlled environments and used in situ where possible.