Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pesticides and herbicides, particularly in the production of certain sulfonylurea-type herbicides. It serves as a chlorinating and acylating agent in organic reactions, enabling the introduction of dichloropropionyl groups into target molecules. Its high reactivity makes it valuable in the development of agrochemicals where specific side-chain modifications are required. Due to its lachrymatory and corrosive nature, it is handled under controlled conditions in industrial settings.