18-Bromooctadecanoic acid is primarily used in the synthesis of specialized lipids and surfactants, which are essential in the development of advanced materials and chemical research. Its long hydrocarbon chain and bromine substituent make it a valuable intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly for creating amphiphilic molecules that can self-assemble into micelles or vesicles. These structures are crucial in drug delivery systems, where they help encapsulate and transport therapeutic agents to specific targets in the body. Additionally, it is employed in the production of modified fatty acids and esters, which are used in lubricants, coatings, and plasticizers. Its role in the study of membrane dynamics and lipid bilayers also makes it a key component in biophysical and biochemical research.