Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of dyes and pigments, particularly for producing azo dyes that exhibit good light and wash fastness. It also serves in the preparation of functional organic compounds where the nitro group can be reduced to an amine for further derivatization. Its ethoxy and chloro substituents allow for selective reactions in multi-step syntheses, making it valuable in fine chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Additionally, it finds use in research for developing nitroaromatic-based sensors and electronic materials due to its electron-withdrawing properties.