Sodium 2-ethylhexyl sulfate hydrate is used primarily as an anionic surfactant and emulsifying agent in industrial and laboratory applications. It helps stabilize emulsions by reducing surface tension between liquids, making it useful in the preparation of microemulsions and nanoparticle synthesis. It is also employed in some biochemical applications for protein solubilization due to its milder denaturing properties compared to longer-chain sulfates. Additionally, it is found in cleaning formulations and personal care products for its foaming and wetting properties. Its anionic nature enhances the solubilization of hydrophobic compounds in aqueous environments.