Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of anthraquinone-based dyes and pigments, particularly for textile dyes that exhibit good lightfastness and color stability. It is valued in the production of vat dyes for cotton and other cellulosic fibers, where strong, durable colors are required. The compound's reactivity allows for further functionalization, making it useful in developing dyes with tailored hue and solubility properties. Additionally, it finds use in the preparation of specialty chemicals for optical brighteners and fluorescent markers due to the inherent chromophoric properties of the anthraquinone core.