Used in organic synthesis as a protecting group for carbonyl compounds, particularly aldehydes. It forms cyclic derivatives that are stable under various reaction conditions, allowing selective transformations elsewhere in the molecule. After the desired reaction, the 1,3-benzodithiole group can be removed to regenerate the carbonyl functionality. This makes it valuable in multi-step synthesis of complex organic molecules, including natural products and pharmaceuticals. Also employed in the development of conductive organic materials and thiophene-based polymers for electronic applications.