Used as a precursor in the production of zirconium metal and various zirconium-based compounds. Commonly employed in organic synthesis as a Lewis acid catalyst, particularly in Friedel-Crafts reactions and other carbon-carbon bond-forming reactions. Plays a role in the preparation of catalysts for polymerization of olefins. Utilized in the manufacturing of refractory materials and specialty ceramics due to its high thermal stability. Also finds use in the electronics industry for depositing zirconium-containing thin films through chemical vapor deposition (CVD) processes.