Used as a phase-transfer catalyst in organic synthesis, facilitating reactions between reagents in different phases by shuttling ions into organic solvents. Commonly applied in nucleophilic substitution reactions, especially for alkylation processes. Also serves as a precursor in the preparation of Wittig reagents, which are essential for olefination reactions—converting carbonyl compounds into alkenes. Its dual phosphonium centers allow for enhanced reactivity and selectivity in certain bimolecular transformations.