Fluoroacetic acid butyl ester is primarily used in research and development as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of more complex organic compounds. Its applications are often found in the field of organic chemistry, where it serves as a building block for the creation of specialized molecules. Due to its structure, it can be employed in the development of fluorinated compounds, which are valuable in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and materials science. Additionally, it may be utilized in laboratory settings for studying reaction mechanisms or as a reagent in specific chemical transformations. However, its use requires careful handling due to its potential toxicity and reactivity.