Used as a reference standard in analytical laboratories for the detection and quantification of dichloroacetic acid in environmental, biological, and water samples. Commonly employed in gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) methods to ensure accurate identification and measurement, especially in studies related to disinfection by-products in drinking water. Also utilized in metabolic research due to its role as a metabolite of certain chlorinated hydrocarbons and its influence on pyruvate dehydrogenase activity.