Used as an analytical reagent for the detection and determination of certain metal ions, particularly in spectrophotometric analysis. It functions as a chromogenic reagent, forming colored complexes with metals such as cobalt, nickel, and copper, which allows for their quantitative measurement in environmental and industrial samples. Its selective binding properties make it suitable for use in developing sensors or test kits for metal ion detection in water and soil. Additionally, it has been explored in research settings for its potential in designing enzyme inhibitors due to its structural similarity to known bioactive ureas.