Abstract: The present invention provides polymeric compositions comprising an hydrogenated anthraquinone derivative and/or its enol/enolate tautomer. Methods of scavenging oxygen and preventing transmission of oxygen into a package using said compositions are also provided.

Abstract: A method of scavenging oxygen in an atmosphere or liquid comprising the steps of: (i) treating an anthraquinone compound according to the formula: (I) wherein X1-X4 and R1-R4 are as defined in the claims, with predetermined conditions so as to reduce the anthraquinone compound to a reduced form oxidizable by oxygen; and ii) exposing the atmosphere or liquid to said compound; such that at least a portion of teh oxygen in teh atmosphere or liquid is removed through oxidation of the reduced form of the anthraquinone compound, and wherein steps i) and ii) may be carried out in either order.

Abstract: Oxygen scavenging compositions comprising at least one reducible organic compound which is reduced under predetermined conditions, the reduced form of the compound being oxidisable by molecular oxygen, wherein the reduction and/or subsequent oxidation of the organic compound occurs independent of the presence of a transition metal catalyst. Uses for the above compounds provide a flexible packaging material, a carton, a bag-in-box package, a thermoformed tray, cup or tub, a resin for blow-moulding, an overwrap, shrinkwrap, tight label or coating, a closure liner and a can.