NEW MATERIAL: A compound of formula I (R is F, Cl, Br, C1-4 alkoxy or phenoxy; R' is C1-4 alkoxy, phenoxy, F or polyalkyleneoxy alkyl ether; n is 1-3, provided that when R is Cl, then R' is not p-methoxy).

EXAMPLE: 9,10-Bis(4-ethoxyphenyl)-2-chloroanthracene.

USE: Chemiluminescent solution.

PROCESS: A compound of formula II obtained by Friedel-Crafts reaction between phthalic anhydride and a 2-phenyl derivative is cyclized in sulfuric acid to give a compound of formula III. After addition of a Grignard reagent (R')nPhMgBr to the product, the reaction mixture is hydrolyzed with ammonium chloride to give a compound of formula IV. The product is reduced with KI, an active acid (e.g. CH3COOH) and sodium phosphite under refluxed conditions to give the compound of formula I.