3-Nitrobenzyl alcohol is primarily used as a chemical intermediate in organic synthesis. It serves as a precursor in the production of various pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyes. Its nitro group makes it a valuable building block for introducing nitro functionalities into more complex molecules. Additionally, it is utilized in the synthesis of UV absorbers and light stabilizers, which are essential in protecting materials from degradation caused by ultraviolet radiation. In research laboratories, it is often employed as a reagent in the development of new chemical compounds and in studies involving nitroaromatic chemistry. Its applications also extend to the field of polymer chemistry, where it can be used to modify polymer properties or as a monomer in polymerization reactions.