Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals. It serves as a building block in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds due to the reactivity of the cyano and ester groups. Commonly employed in Knoevenagel condensations to form unsaturated nitriles, which are precursors to dyes, fragrances, and UV absorbers. Also utilized in the synthesis of agrochemicals and specialty polymers, where its lipophilic octyl chain aids in solubility and reactivity modulation.