1-Butylthiourea is primarily used in analytical chemistry as a reagent for the detection and quantification of various metal ions, particularly bismuth and palladium. It forms stable complexes with these metals, enabling their separation and identification in complex mixtures. In organic synthesis, it serves as a precursor or intermediate in the preparation of more complex thiourea derivatives, which are often employed in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Additionally, it finds application in corrosion inhibition, where it is used to protect metal surfaces from degradation in acidic environments. Its ability to act as a stabilizer in certain industrial processes also makes it valuable in the production of polymers and resins.