Widely used in the dye and pigment industry as an intermediate for synthesizing azo dyes, which are essential for coloring textiles, paper, and leather. It plays a key role in producing vibrant and durable colors due to its sulfonic acid group, which enhances water solubility and binding properties. Additionally, it is utilized in the manufacture of optical brighteners and as a reagent in analytical chemistry for detecting specific compounds. Its versatility makes it valuable in industrial applications requiring stable and efficient chemical reactions.