Self-reducing anthraquinone compounds

摘要

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.