Used in organic synthesis as a reagent for the preparation of phosphorus-containing compounds. Commonly employed in the formation of phosphonium salts and in Wittig-type reactions to generate alkenes from carbonyl compounds. Its reactivity makes it useful in the development of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals where phosphorus moieties are required. Also applied in materials science for the synthesis of functionalized polymers and ligands for catalysis. Requires careful handling due to its moisture sensitivity and potential for exothermic reactions.