Used primarily as a reagent in organic synthesis, it is valuable for introducing the 4-methyl-3-nitrobenzenesulfonyl (MNS) protecting group in peptide chemistry. This group helps protect amines during complex reactions, ensuring selective transformations. It is also employed in the preparation of sulfonamides, which are important in pharmaceutical research for developing drugs with antibacterial, antiviral, or anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, it serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of dyes and other specialty chemicals. Its reactivity with nucleophiles makes it useful in cross-coupling reactions and material science applications.