Used primarily as a chemical intermediate in the production of polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) polymers. These polymers are key components in specialty plastics and barrier films that provide excellent resistance to moisture, gases, and chemicals—commonly found in food packaging to extend shelf life. Also employed in the synthesis of certain refrigerants and adhesives. Its reactivity makes it valuable in organic synthesis for introducing dichloro-substituted moieties. Due to volatility and stability concerns, it is often handled in solution form for safer processing and transport.