Used as a reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation reactions, where it acts as a Lewis acid catalyst to promote the formation of carbon-carbon bonds. It is also employed in the production of dyes, fragrances, and pharmaceuticals. In analytical chemistry, the test solution helps detect the presence of compounds that can form complexes with aluminum, aiding in qualitative analysis. Its catalytic properties make it valuable in industrial processes involving aromatic compounds.