Used primarily in electrical equipment as a dielectric fluid due to its chemical stability and insulating properties. Also found in older industrial applications such as heat transfer systems and hydraulic fluids. Its persistence in the environment has led to concerns about bioaccumulation and toxicity, resulting in restricted use. Historically present in some commercial PCB mixtures, it contributes to the environmental contamination associated with polychlorinated biphenyls. Monitoring and remediation of sites contaminated with this compound are common due to its long-term ecological impact.