Used as a bifunctional linker molecule in surface chemistry and nanomaterial synthesis. The thiol group binds strongly to gold and other noble metal surfaces, forming self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), while the hydroxyl end provides a reactive site for further chemical modification. Commonly employed in biosensors to immobilize biomolecules such as proteins or DNA onto gold electrodes or nanoparticles. Also applied in electrochemistry to create functional interfaces for molecular electronics and in the stabilization of nanoparticles for drug delivery systems. Its dual functionality enables precise control over surface properties, making it valuable in nanotechnology and bioconjugation.