Widely used in organic synthesis, particularly for the cleavage of methyl ethers. It efficiently removes methyl groups from aromatic and aliphatic methyl ethers, making it valuable in the preparation of phenols and other oxygen-containing compounds. Commonly employed in pharmaceutical manufacturing where selective deprotection of ether functionalities is required. Also used in the synthesis of advanced intermediates in fine chemicals and agrochemicals. Due to its strong Lewis acidity, it serves as a catalyst in various electrophilic reactions, including bromination and alkylation processes. Additionally, it is used in the semiconductor industry as a boron source for doping processes. Handles under inert conditions because of its high reactivity with moisture and air.