This derivative of benzidine is a precursor to polybenzimidazole, which forms fibers that are renowned for their chemical and thermal stability.

[3] Diaminobenzidine, which is commercially available, is prepared by treating 3,3′-dichlorobenzidine with ammonia with a copper catalyst at high temperature and pressure, followed by acidic workup.

[5] The solubility of DAB in water allows for adaptability compared to other detection solutions which use toxic solvents.

[7] In research, this reaction is used to stain cells that were prepared with hydrogen peroxidase enzyme, following common immunocytochemistry protocols.

This will bind DAB as a substrate and oxidize it, producing an easily observable brown color.