Abstract In a microwave field, phthalic anhydride reacts with p-chlorophenol to give 1, 4- dihydroxyanthraquinone (quinizarin) within 10 min. The reaction with 4-chlorophthalic anhydride occurs similarly. Phthalic and chlorophthalic acids can be used instead of anhydrides. 3-Nitrophthalic acid and 3, 4, 5, 6-tetrabromophthalic anhydride do not react with p-chlorophenol under these conditions.