Used as a key intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It serves as a protecting group for imidazole derivatives during peptide synthesis and other multi-step reactions. Its reactivity allows for efficient introduction of the imidazole ring into larger molecules, making it valuable in drug development, especially in histidine-related compounds and kinase inhibitors. Also employed in the synthesis of ionic liquids and functional materials due to its stable ester and heterocyclic structure.