Used primarily as a bifunctional linker molecule in surface chemistry and nanotechnology. The thiol group binds strongly to gold and other noble metal surfaces, forming self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), while the hydroxyl end provides a hydrophilic, reactive site for further chemical modification. Commonly employed in biosensors and biochips to immobilize biomolecules such as proteins or DNA. Also applied in microcontact printing and molecular electronics for creating ordered molecular interfaces. Its dual functionality enables precise control over surface wettability and molecular orientation.