Used primarily as a dye intermediate in the textile industry, especially in the production of azo dyes for cotton, wool, and silk fabrics. It imparts bright yellow to red shades and is valued for good color fastness. Also employed in the synthesis of indicators and pigments for inks and coatings. Historically used in research as a model compound for studying azo compound metabolism, though its use is limited now due to toxicity concerns. Not suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications.