Used primarily in the synthesis of liquid crystal compounds, especially in the production of rod-like mesogens for display technologies. Its alkoxy and carboxylic acid functional groups allow for easy modification and incorporation into larger molecular structures that exhibit thermotropic liquid crystalline behavior. Commonly found in mixtures for nematic and smectic phase materials used in LCDs. Also serves as an intermediate in organic synthesis for pharmaceuticals and specialty polymers due to its rigid aromatic core and flexible side chain.