Phenyl sulfoxide is widely utilized in organic synthesis as an intermediate for the production of various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It serves as a key building block in the synthesis of sulfoxides and sulfones, which are important in drug development. Additionally, it is used in asymmetric catalysis to create chiral molecules, essential in the manufacture of enantiomerically pure compounds. In material science, phenyl sulfoxide is employed in the development of specialty polymers and resins. Its role as a solvent or co-solvent in certain chemical reactions also enhances reaction efficiency and selectivity.