Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and functionalized polymers. Its dual functionality—primary alcohol and benzyl-protected alcohol—allows selective reactions, making it valuable in multi-step syntheses. Commonly employed in the development of prodrugs and biocompatible materials due to the ease of deprotection of the benzyl group under mild conditions. Also utilized in the synthesis of surfactants and crosslinking agents where controlled hydrophilicity and reactivity are required.