Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of dyes and pigments, especially in azo dye production due to its azo functional group. It serves in the development of colorants for textiles, inks, and coatings where lightfastness and color intensity are important. Also finds use in research settings for photochemical studies, as the azo group can undergo reversible trans-cis isomerization upon light exposure, making it relevant in the design of light-responsive materials. Additionally, it has been explored in the preparation of functionalized polymers and sensors due to the reactivity of the hydroxyl group, allowing for further chemical modification.