Sodium 1-propanethiolate is primarily used in organic synthesis as a nucleophile or base. It is often employed in the formation of thioether bonds, which are crucial in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. The compound is also utilized in the preparation of metal sulfide nanoparticles, where it acts as a sulfur source. Additionally, it finds application in the modification of polymers and materials to introduce thiol functional groups, enhancing their properties for specific industrial uses. Its role in catalysis and as a reagent in chemical transformations further highlights its versatility in synthetic chemistry.