Widely used as a nonionic surfactant, this compound serves as an effective emulsifier, solubilizer, and detergent in industrial and laboratory applications. It is commonly employed in cleaning products, metal processing fluids, and pesticide formulations to enhance the dispersion of oily substances in water. Its stability across a range of pH levels and temperatures makes it suitable for use in textile processing and as a wetting agent in agricultural sprays. Additionally, it has been utilized in some oil recovery processes and in the formulation of emulsions for coatings and adhesives. Due to environmental concerns related to its degradation byproducts, its use is increasingly regulated in certain regions.