2-Hydroxyanthracene is primarily used in the field of organic synthesis and materials science. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of dyes and pigments, particularly for creating vibrant colors in textiles and plastics. Additionally, it is employed in the development of organic semiconductors, which are essential for manufacturing electronic devices like OLEDs and solar cells. Its fluorescent properties also make it valuable in research applications, such as in the study of photophysical processes and as a probe in biochemical assays. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is explored for its potential in synthesizing bioactive compounds.