Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides, particularly in the production of aryloxyphenoxypropionate class compounds. These herbicides are effective against grass weeds in broadleaf crops such as soybeans, cotton, and peanuts. The compound's reactivity allows it to form ester linkages with alcohols, facilitating the creation of active herbicidal agents. It is also employed in the development of agrochemicals due to its ability to modify molecular structure for enhanced selectivity and potency. Due to its corrosive and reactive nature, it is handled under controlled conditions in industrial settings.