Widely used as a biocide in industrial water systems, 4-Dodecyl-o-cresol effectively controls microbial growth in cooling towers, paper mills, and metalworking fluids. Its strong antimicrobial properties make it suitable for preventing slime formation and bacterial contamination. It is also employed as a disinfectant in household and institutional cleaning products due to its efficacy against a broad spectrum of microorganisms. Additionally, it serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of certain antioxidants and resins used in rubber and polymer industries. Its surfactant-like structure enhances penetration into microbial cell membranes, increasing its biocidal efficiency.