Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound serves in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals due to its reactive thiocyanate group and conjugated ketone functionality. Its structure allows for versatile transformations, including cyclization reactions to form heterocyclic compounds. It is also employed in the development of specialty chemicals where selective reactivity is required. Due to its lachrymatory properties, it has been explored in the formulation of irritant agents for research and defensive applications, though such uses are limited and highly regulated.