1-Bromo-4-nonylbenzene is primarily used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of surfactants and detergents. Its structure, featuring a long alkyl chain, makes it suitable for creating compounds that can lower surface tension, which is essential in cleaning agents and emulsifiers. Additionally, it is utilized in the synthesis of liquid crystals, which are critical components in display technologies such as LCDs. The compound’s ability to act as a precursor in various chemical reactions also makes it valuable in the development of specialty chemicals and polymers.