Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a ubiquitous chemical compound, valued for its strong oxidizing properties and its environmentally friendly nature, as its decomposition products are water and oxygen. The production of hydrogen peroxide on an industrial scale often relies on sophisticated chemical processes, and Anthraquinone (CAS 84-65-1) plays a critical role in one of the most prominent methods: the anthraquinone process.

In this process, Anthraquinone derivatives are used in a cyclic manner to produce hydrogen peroxide. The core of the method involves the hydrogenation of an anthraquinone derivative to its corresponding anthrahydroquinone. This is followed by oxidation of the anthrahydroquinone with air or oxygen, regenerating the original anthraquinone derivative and producing hydrogen peroxide. The hydrogen peroxide is then extracted, and the cycle repeats. This approach is favored for its efficiency and scalability, making Anthraquinone a crucial hydrogen peroxide raw material.

The anthraquinone process is the dominant method globally for producing hydrogen peroxide, accounting for the vast majority of worldwide production. This highlights the fundamental importance of Anthraquinone and its derivatives in supplying this essential chemical. Industries ranging from pulp and paper bleaching, textiles, water treatment, to electronics manufacturing all depend on a stable supply of hydrogen peroxide, which in turn depends on the efficient utilization of Anthraquinone. Manufacturers seeking to understand the supply chain of industrial chemicals will find the role of Anthraquinone in H₂O₂ production to be a key area of interest.