Widely used as a reactive monomer in water treatment processes, this chemical is polymerized to form cationic flocculants that remove suspended solids, organic matter, and negatively charged particles from wastewater. The resulting polymers are effective in clarifying water in municipal and industrial treatment plants by promoting aggregation of fine particles, which enhances sedimentation and filtration efficiency.

Commonly applied in paper manufacturing, polymers derived from this monomer improve dry strength and retention of fillers and fibers during paper formation. The positive charge of these polymers helps bind cellulose fibers, increasing paper strength and reducing raw material loss.

In cosmetics and personal care products, copolymers or polymers from this monomer serve as conditioning agents in shampoos and hair treatments. They adhere to hair surfaces, providing softness, reducing static, and improving manageability due to their film-forming and antistatic properties.

Also utilized in the production of functional polymers and coatings, especially where antimicrobial surfaces are needed. When polymerized, it forms polyelectrolyte layers that can disrupt microbial cell membranes, offering biocidal activity in medical devices, textiles, and surface coatings.

Its reactive methacrylate group allows for copolymerization with other monomers, making it valuable in developing specialty polymers for adhesives, hydrogels, ion-exchange resins, and controlled drug delivery systems.