This chemical is primarily utilized in the synthesis of surfactants and emulsifiers due to its amphiphilic nature, which allows it to interact with both water and oil. It is commonly applied in the formulation of personal care products, such as shampoos and lotions, where it helps stabilize mixtures and improve texture. Additionally, it is used in industrial cleaning agents to enhance the removal of grease and dirt. Its ability to act as a chelating agent also makes it valuable in water treatment processes, where it binds to metal ions to prevent scaling and corrosion. In pharmaceutical research, it serves as an intermediate in the development of drug delivery systems, particularly for targeted therapies.