Used primarily in the photography industry as a fixing agent to remove unexposed silver halides from photographic films and papers. It acts as a preservative in food products, preventing discoloration and spoilage. In water treatment, it is employed to remove excess chlorine and as an oxygen scavenger to prevent corrosion in boilers. Additionally, it serves as a reducing agent in various chemical reactions and is utilized in the production of hair-waving solutions. Its antioxidant properties make it suitable for use in certain industrial processes to protect materials from oxidative damage.