Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of functionalized polymers and surface modifiers, particularly in creating hydrophilic coatings and biocompatible materials. Its hydroxyl group allows for further chemical modification, such as coupling with biomolecules or attachment to silica surfaces, making it valuable in biosensor development and controlled drug delivery systems. Also employed in the preparation of fluorescent probes due to its ability to act as a linker with stable amide bonds and flexible alkyl chain spacing.