Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of fluorescent dyes and optical brighteners due to its oxazole core and reactive thiol group. Its structure allows for easy functionalization, making it valuable in developing sensors for metal ions, particularly in environmental monitoring. Also employed in the preparation of pharmaceuticals where the oxazole ring contributes to bioactivity. Commonly applied in polymer chemistry to enhance UV stability and in the development of electroluminescent materials for OLEDs.