Sulfolane is widely used as a solvent in the petrochemical industry, especially in aromatic extraction processes. It selectively separates aromatic hydrocarbons like benzene, toluene, and xylene from hydrocarbon mixtures due to its high polarity and thermal stability. This makes it essential in refining operations to produce high-purity aromatics for use in fuels, plastics, and chemical synthesis.

It is also employed in gas treatment processes to remove sulfur compounds such as hydrogen sulfide and mercaptans from natural gas and refinery streams. Its ability to dissolve polar molecules while remaining stable under high temperatures improves the efficiency and reliability of gas sweetening units.

Additionally, sulfolane finds use as a solvent in lithium-ion battery electrolytes and in some specialty chemical reactions where a polar, aprotic medium is required. Its low volatility and high boiling point contribute to safer and more efficient industrial operations.