(R)-tert-Butanethiosulfinate is primarily used in organic synthesis as a chiral building block. It serves as a key intermediate in the preparation of enantiomerically pure compounds, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry where stereochemistry plays a critical role in drug efficacy and safety. The compound is also employed in the synthesis of sulfur-containing molecules, which are important in the development of agrochemicals and specialty chemicals. Its chiral nature makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, enabling the creation of complex molecules with high enantiomeric purity. Additionally, it finds application in research and development for studying reaction mechanisms and developing new synthetic methodologies.