Benzanthrone

Benzanthrone (BZA) is an aromatic hydrocarbon derivate used as a dyestuff intermediate for anthraquinone-based dyes. It has the appearance of a light yellow to brown-green powder with melting point of 170 °C. It is insoluble in water and soluble in alcohol. It is a basic substance with fluorescent and luminescent properties. It can be used for photosensitization, and as a charge transport material. It is also used in pyrotechnics industry, mainly as a component of some older formulations of green and yellow colored smokes, often together with Vat Yellow 4; its US military specification is MIL-D-50074D.

Its EINECS number is 201-393-3. It is reported to cause itching and burning sensation on exposed skin, together with erythema, dermatitis, and skin pigmentation.