Widely used as a reducing agent in chemical synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals and dyes. Commonly employed in electroless plating processes to deposit metals like copper and silver onto surfaces, providing conductivity and corrosion resistance. Acts as a catalyst in the manufacturing of polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable polymer. Used in textile industry for mordanting fabric dyes to improve color fastness. Applied in analytical chemistry for qualitative detection of mercury and gold in solution. Also utilized in tin plating of steel to enhance durability and prevent rust.