Used as a synthetic intermediate in the production of phospholipids and lipid-based compounds for research in membrane biology. It serves as a model compound to study enzyme activity, particularly in lipase and phospholipase assays, due to its structural similarity to natural glycerolipids. Also employed in the development of lipid delivery systems and in formulating synthetic lipids for drug delivery and liposome preparation. Its chloro group allows for further chemical modifications, making it valuable in organic synthesis of complex lipids.