Tributylchlorosilane is widely used in organic synthesis as a protecting agent for hydroxyl groups. It reacts with alcohols to form stable silyl ethers, which protect the hydroxyl group during chemical reactions. This is particularly useful in the synthesis of complex molecules, such as pharmaceuticals and natural products, where selective protection and deprotection of functional groups are required. Additionally, it is employed in the modification of surfaces, particularly in the preparation of hydrophobic coatings on glass or silica. Its ability to introduce silyl groups makes it valuable in the production of silicone-based materials and in the functionalization of polymers for various industrial applications.