It is used in organic synthesis as a catalyst, a complexing ligand, and a non-nucleophilic base.

[3] Although all commercially available DBU is produced synthetically, it may also be isolated from the sea sponge Niphates digitalis.

[4] The biosynthesis of DBU has been proposed to begin with adipaldehyde and 1,3-diaminopropane.

As a reagent in organic chemistry, DBU is used as a ligand and base.

[6] These properties recommend DBU for use as a catalyst, for example as a curing agent for epoxy resins and polyurethane.