Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of herbicides and plant growth regulators. Its structure allows for functionalization in multi-step reactions, making it valuable in creating active ingredients that target specific enzyme pathways in plants. Also employed in the preparation of specialty chemicals where nitrile and amino groups enable coupling reactions or serve as precursors to heterocyclic compounds. Its tert-butyl group contributes to steric stability, enhancing selectivity in synthetic pathways.