Used primarily as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of various organic compounds. It finds application in the production of specialty chemicals, particularly in the development of polymers and resins, where it acts as a reactive monomer or cross-linking agent. Its trichloroacetate group makes it useful in organic synthesis for introducing trichloromethyl functionalities into target molecules. Additionally, it is employed in research laboratories for studying esterification reactions and as a solvent or reagent in specific chemical processes. Its applications are often tailored to niche industrial or experimental contexts due to its specialized chemical properties.