Used as a building block in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), this compound acts as a multitopic linker due to its multiple nitrogen donor sites and carboxylic acid groups. Its rigid aromatic structure and ability to coordinate with various metal ions make it ideal for constructing porous materials used in gas storage, separation, and catalysis. The imidazole groups enhance coordination versatility, allowing the formation of complex network structures with tunable properties. It is also explored in the development of luminescent materials and sensors due to its ability to form stable complexes with lanthanide and transition metals.