Used as an intermediate in the production of specialty solvents and organic synthesis. Commonly employed in the manufacturing of dyes, fragrances, and resin modifiers due to its aromatic structure and alkyl substitution pattern. Also serves as a precursor in the synthesis of certain polymers and plasticizers, where its ethyl and methyl group positioning enhances solubility and reactivity in electrophilic substitution reactions. Limited use in laboratory research for developing new aromatic compounds.