Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, especially in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. The isocyanate group reacts readily with amines and alcohols, making it valuable for constructing urea and carbamate derivatives. Its chiral center allows for stereoselective transformations, useful in synthesizing enantiomerically pure compounds. Commonly employed in the development of protease inhibitors and other bioactive molecules where structural specificity is critical.