Anthracene is widely used in the production of dyes, particularly anthraquinone dyes, which are valued for their vibrant colors and stability. These dyes are applied in textiles, paper, and inks. It also serves as a key material in the synthesis of alizarin, a red dye historically significant in the textile industry.

In organic electronics, anthracene is utilized as a semiconductor material due to its ability to conduct electricity under specific conditions. It is incorporated into organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and photovoltaic cells, contributing to advancements in energy-efficient lighting and solar energy technologies.

Additionally, anthracene is employed as a scintillator in radiation detection devices. Its ability to fluoresce when exposed to high-energy particles makes it useful in nuclear research and medical imaging for detecting and measuring radiation.

In research, anthracene is often used as a model compound in studies of aromatic hydrocarbons and photochemical reactions, helping scientists understand complex organic processes and develop new materials. As a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), it also serves as an environmental indicator for air and water pollution monitoring.