1,3-Propanedithiol has been used for the protection of aldehydes and ketones via their reversible formation of dithianes.

[2] The reactivity of this dithiane illustrates the concept of umpolung.

The unpleasant odour of 1,3-propanedithiol has encouraged the development of alternative reagents that generate similar derivatives.

1,3-Propanedithiol reacts with metal ions to form dithiolates.

Illustrative is the synthesis of the derivative diiron propanedithiolate hexacarbonyl upon reaction with triiron dodecacarbonyl:[5] The stench of 1,3-propanedithiol can be minimized with bleach.