Used in the synthesis of fluorescent dyes and optical brighteners due to its ability to form conjugated systems upon esterification or amidation. Serves as a building block in the preparation of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) where its carboxylic and hydroxyl groups coordinate with metal ions to form porous materials for gas storage or catalysis. Employed in pharmaceutical intermediates for constructing heterocyclic compounds, especially in routes involving cyclization or dehydration reactions. Also utilized in polymer chemistry to introduce polarity and enhance thermal stability in polyesters and polyamides.