Used primarily in the synthesis of specialty surfactants and emulsifiers due to its branched-chain structure, which enhances solubility and lowers melting point compared to straight-chain fatty acids. Its unique structure makes it suitable for formulations in personal care products, such as shampoos, soaps, and lotions, where improved spreadability and mildness are desired. Also investigated as a building block in the development of biodegradable lubricants and esters for industrial applications. The branching can influence metabolic stability, making it of interest in pharmaceutical research for prodrug design or lipid-based drug delivery systems.