Used primarily as a reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of thioester derivatives. It serves as an acylating agent for introducing the (phenylthio)acetyl group into various nucleophilic compounds such as amines and alcohols. This functionality is valuable in the development of pharmaceutical intermediates, especially in the synthesis of sulfur-containing bioactive molecules. Its reactivity makes it useful in constructing complex molecular frameworks in medicinal chemistry and in the modification of peptides and heterocycles. Due to its sensitivity to moisture, it is typically handled under anhydrous conditions.