Used as a solvent and plasticizer in coatings, adhesives, resins, and printing inks due to its good solvency, low volatility, neutrality, and ability to promote even drying while reducing air bubbles.

Employed in the fragrance and personal care industries as a carrier or fixative because of its mild odor, stability, good fragrance dispersion, and low skin irritation at appropriate levels.

Serves as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of vitamins, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals, due to its ease of transformation via reactions such as hydrolysis or reduction.

Also investigated as a fuel additive and biodiesel component owing to its favorable combustion properties and biodegradability.