5-Iodopentan-1-ol is primarily used in organic synthesis as a versatile intermediate. It serves as a key building block in the preparation of more complex molecules, particularly in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. The compound is often employed in nucleophilic substitution reactions, where the iodine atom can be easily replaced by other functional groups, enabling the creation of diverse chemical structures. Additionally, it is utilized in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, which are important in drug development. Its applications also extend to materials science, where it is used in the modification of polymers and the creation of specialized coatings.