Benzyl chloroformate is widely used in organic synthesis, particularly in the protection of amino groups during peptide synthesis. It acts as a protecting agent for amines, forming carbamate derivatives that are stable under various reaction conditions. This property makes it valuable in the stepwise construction of complex peptides and proteins, ensuring that specific amino acids remain unaffected during subsequent reactions.

In addition to peptide synthesis, it is employed in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its ability to selectively protect functional groups allows for precise control over chemical transformations, which is crucial in the development of drugs and bioactive compounds.

Furthermore, benzyl chloroformate is utilized in the synthesis of polymers and resins, where it serves as a modifying agent to introduce specific functional groups into the polymer chain. This enhances the material properties, making it suitable for applications in coatings, adhesives, and advanced materials.

Overall, its versatility in protecting and modifying functional groups makes it an essential reagent in both academic research and industrial applications.