Used primarily as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound is especially valuable in the preparation of agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. It serves as a chloroacylating agent, introducing the 2-chloro-2-methylpropanoyl group into various substrates, enabling the formation of amides, esters, and other carbonyl derivatives. Its high reactivity makes it suitable for synthesizing specialty monomers and functional polymers. Due to its sensitivity to moisture, it is typically handled under anhydrous conditions in controlled environments.