Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of sulfonate esters for pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its activated sulfonate group facilitates nucleophilic substitution reactions, making it valuable for introducing the tetrahydrothiopyran dioxide moiety into target molecules. Commonly employed in the development of bioactive compounds where a polar, metabolically stable ring system is desired. Also utilized in medicinal chemistry for modifying drug candidates to improve solubility and binding properties.