Used primarily as an activating agent in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of esters and amides. It facilitates the coupling of carboxylic acids with alcohols or amines under mild conditions. Commonly employed in peptide synthesis to promote bond formation without extensive racemization. Also utilized in the development of prodrugs due to its ability to form carbonate esters that can undergo enzymatic or chemical cleavage in biological systems. Its electron-withdrawing nitro group enhances reactivity, making it effective in low-temperature reactions.