Used as a reducing agent in chemical synthesis, particularly in the production of silver mirrors and in electroless plating of metals on glass or plastic. Acts as a catalyst in the manufacturing of polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable polymer. Employed in the textile industry for mordanting dyes, improving color fastness on fabrics. Utilized in the leather tanning process to enhance softness and durability. Serves as a stabilizer in barium azide for detonators and in some flame-retardant formulations. Also applied in analytical chemistry for the detection of mercury and in the reduction of nitro groups to amines or diazo salts to hydrocarbons in organic compounds. Additionally, used in some toothpaste formulations as stannous chloride to reduce tooth sensitivity.