Used as a multifunctional ligand in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), enabling the construction of porous materials for gas storage and catalysis. Its rigid, symmetric structure enhances framework stability and promotes π–π stacking interactions, beneficial for sensing applications, particularly in detecting nitroaromatic explosives and volatile organic compounds. Also employed in supramolecular chemistry to direct self-assembly of coordination polymers with tunable luminescent properties, useful in optoelectronic devices and chemical sensors.