Used as a fluorinating agent in organic synthesis, particularly in the introduction of difluoromethyl groups into pharmaceutical intermediates. Its sulfinyl-based structure enables selective transfer of difluoromethoxy (CF2H) moieties under mild conditions, making it valuable in the development of agrochemicals and bioactive molecules where fluorine substitution enhances metabolic stability and lipophilicity. The zinc center acts as a Lewis acid, facilitating activation of the difluoromethylsulfinyl group for nucleophilic substitution. Suitable for lab-scale reactions requiring controlled fluorination with reduced side reactivity compared to harsher fluorinating agents.