Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and functional materials, particularly in the development of liquid crystal compounds and organic semiconductors. Its aldehyde and ester functional groups allow for versatile chemical modifications, enabling the construction of complex molecular architectures. Commonly employed in cross-coupling reactions and condensation processes to form Schiff bases or extended conjugated systems. Also utilized in the preparation of photoactive molecules and polymer additives due to its stable aromatic backbone and reactive handles for further derivatization.