Used in the synthesis of biocompatible polymers and surface coatings due to its long alkyl chain and functional thiol group. The thiol enables attachment to gold surfaces or participation in radical reactions, making it useful in sensor development and self-assembled monolayers. Also serves as a linker molecule in bioconjugation and drug delivery systems where controlled surface interaction or sustained release is required. Its carboxylic acid end allows for easy coupling to amines or alcohols, facilitating integration into larger molecular architectures.