Widely used in the pulp and paper industry, anthraquinone enhances the production of wood pulp through the kraft pulping process, improving yield and reducing energy consumption. It acts as a catalyst that helps break down lignin more efficiently, allowing for better separation of cellulose fibers from wood.

In dye manufacturing, it serves as a key precursor for producing a range of vat dyes and disperse dyes, especially for cotton, wool, and synthetic fibers, offering strong colorfastness and vibrant shades.

It also finds use in the textile industry to improve dye uptake and uniformity.

Additionally, it is employed in the production of hydrogen peroxide via the anthraquinone process, a major industrial method where it undergoes hydrogenation and oxidation cycles to generate high-purity hydrogen peroxide.

Some derivatives are explored in pharmaceuticals for their laxative effects, acting as stimulants for bowel movements, as well as potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

It is also used in some redox flow batteries and as a photoinitiator in certain polymerization reactions.