Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, particularly in the development of compounds with biological activity. Its reactive carbonyl chloride group allows for easy incorporation into larger molecules, making it valuable in building complex organic structures. Commonly employed in the preparation of herbicides and fungicides due to the stability and bioavailability imparted by the benzo[b]thiophene core. Also utilized in research settings for the design of novel heterocyclic compounds with potential therapeutic applications.