9-nitroanthracene is a precursor of anthraquinones, which are often used as photosensitizers used in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Anthraquinone is also an important precursor for drugs such as Emodin (E523000), Aloe-emodin (A575400), and Rufgallol. 9-nitroanthracene has potential application in cancer therapy.
ChEBI: 9-Nitroanthracene is a member of anthracenes.
Aromatic nitro compounds, such as 9-NITROANTHRACENE, range from slight to strong oxidizing agents. If mixed with reducing agents, including hydrides, sulfides and nitrides, they may begin a vigorous reaction that culminates in a detonation. The aromatic nitro compounds may explode in the presence of a base such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide even in the presence of water or organic solvents. The explosive tendencies of aromatic nitro compounds are increased by the presence of multiple nitro groups. 9-NITROANTHRACENE may be sensitive to prolonged exposure to light.
ACUTE/CHRONIC HAZARDS: 9-NITROANTHRACENE may cause skin irritation on contact.
Flash point data are not available for 9-NITROANTHRACENE, but 9-NITROANTHRACENE is probably combustible.
Purify it by recrystallisation from EtOH or MeOH. Further purify it also by sublimation or TLC. [Beilstein 5 H 666, 5 II 578, 5 III 2136, 5 IV 2296.]
