N,N'-Bis(salicylidene)-1,2-phenylenediamine is widely used as a ligand in coordination chemistry due to its ability to form stable complexes with various metal ions. These complexes are often employed in catalytic processes, particularly in oxidation reactions, where they enhance efficiency and selectivity.

In materials science, it serves as a precursor for the synthesis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and other advanced materials with potential applications in gas storage, separation, and sensing. Its chelating properties make it valuable in the development of sensors for detecting metal ions in environmental and biological samples.

Additionally, this compound finds use in the field of corrosion inhibition, where it is applied to protect metals and alloys from degradation in harsh environments. Its ability to form protective films on metal surfaces makes it effective in industrial settings.

In biochemistry, it is explored for its potential in enzyme mimicry and as a model for studying metalloenzyme activity. Its structural similarity to natural ligands allows it to interact with biological systems, making it a subject of interest in medicinal chemistry and drug design.