Used as a catalyst in organic synthesis, particularly in Meerwein-Ponndorf-Verley reductions, where it facilitates the reduction of aldehydes and ketones to alcohols using isopropanol as a hydrogen donor. It serves as a cross-linking agent in sol-gel processes for producing metal oxide materials, ceramics, thin films, and coatings. Also employed in the preparation of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals due to its selective reactivity and ability to promote ester interchange reactions (transesterification). Its moisture sensitivity makes it useful in controlled environments for synthesizing aluminum-containing compounds and nanomaterials.