This chemical is primarily used as a chiral building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of enantiomerically pure compounds, which are crucial for developing drugs with specific biological activities. Its application extends to the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) where stereochemistry plays a significant role in efficacy and safety. Additionally, it is utilized in the synthesis of fine chemicals and specialty materials that require precise chiral control. Its reactive acyl chloride group makes it a valuable reagent for introducing acetyl groups into target molecules, facilitating the creation of complex organic structures.