8-Aminooctanoic acid is primarily used in the synthesis of polymers and peptides. It serves as a building block in the production of nylon-8, a type of synthetic polymer known for its durability and resistance to wear. Additionally, it is utilized in the development of bioactive peptides, which have applications in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology for drug delivery and therapeutic purposes. Its amino and carboxyl functional groups make it a versatile intermediate in organic synthesis, enabling the creation of various compounds with industrial and medical relevance.