Used as a key building block in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), particularly for constructing porous materials with high thermal stability. Its rigid, planar structure and multiple coordination sites allow for strong binding with metal ions, enabling the design of MOFs for gas storage, separation, and catalysis. The azo linkage (-N=N-) provides potential for photo-responsive behavior, making it suitable in smart materials and sensors. Also explored in dye-sensitized systems and proton-conductive materials due to its ability to form extended hydrogen-bonding networks.