This chemical is primarily used in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of complex carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various biologically active molecules, including glycosides and oligosaccharides. The benzyl groups in the compound act as protective groups, allowing selective reactions to occur at specific positions on the sugar molecule. This selective protection is crucial in the stepwise construction of complex carbohydrate structures, which are often found in natural products and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, it is utilized in the development of glycosylation reagents, which are essential for creating glycosidic linkages in carbohydrate chemistry. Its role in these processes makes it valuable in drug discovery, particularly in the design of carbohydrate-based therapeutics and vaccines.