Although nickel catalysts are traditionally employed, many variations have been evaluated.

[3] Over-hydrogenation converts tetralin into decahydronaphthalene (decalin).

In a classic named reaction called the Darzens tetralin synthesis, named for Auguste Georges Darzens (1926), derivatives can be prepared by intramolecular electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction of a 1-aryl-pent-4-ene using concentrated sulfuric acid,[4] Tetralin is used as a hydrogen-donor solvent, for example in coal liquifaction.

[5][2] It has been used in sodium-cooled fast reactors as a secondary coolant to keep sodium seals around pump impellers solidified; however its use has been superseded by NaK.

[6]: 24:30 It is also used for the laboratory synthesis of hydrogen bromide: The facility of this reaction is in part a consequence of the moderated strength of the benzylic C-H bonds.