Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of fluorescent dyes and sensors due to its ability to chelate metal ions and participate in condensation reactions. Its dual aldehyde and hydroxyl functional groups enable the formation of Schiff bases, making it valuable in developing chemosensors for detecting cations and small molecules. Also applied in the preparation of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) for use in catalysis and gas storage, leveraging its rigid aromatic structure and defined geometry. Additionally, it serves in pharmaceutical research for constructing heterocyclic compounds with potential biological activity.