Used primarily as a chlorinating agent in organic synthesis, it converts alcohols and carboxylic acids into alkyl chlorides and acyl chlorides, respectively. It is also employed in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyes. In the battery industry, it serves as an electrolyte in lithium-thionyl chloride batteries, offering high energy density and long shelf life. Additionally, it is utilized in the manufacture of polymers and as a reagent in laboratory settings for various chemical reactions.