Widely used as a reducing agent in various industrial and laboratory processes. Commonly applied in textile printing and dyeing to reduce water-insoluble dyes into soluble forms, allowing even color distribution on fabrics. Employed in paper manufacturing to bleach wood pulp, improving brightness without significant fiber damage. Used in water treatment to remove chlorine and other oxidizing agents. Also utilized in chemical synthesis to reduce compounds such as nitro groups to amines and in deoxygenating solutions to prevent oxidation during sensitive reactions. Its strong reducing action makes it valuable in removing stains and discoloration in materials like wool and silk.