Used primarily in the synthesis of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), especially ZIF-67, which serves as a precursor for cobalt-based nanomaterials in catalysis, gas storage, and sensing applications. Its porous structure makes it suitable for carbon dioxide capture and separation processes. When pyrolyzed, it forms cobalt nanoparticles embedded in nitrogen-doped carbon matrices, widely explored as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction in fuel cells and zinc-air batteries. Also investigated for use in supercapacitors and lithium-ion batteries due to its high surface area and redox activity. Additionally, it acts as a catalyst in organic transformations such as oxidation and coupling reactions.