The invention relates to compounds of the structure of formula I and II: where X is selected from the group consisting of O, S and NH; Y, A and B are independently selected from the group consisting of N and CH; D, E and F are independently selected from the group consisting of CH, N, O and S; the symbol --- represents a single or a double bond; and R1, R2, and R3 are independently selected from the group consisting of H, electron withdrawing groups and electron releasing groups. In other embodiments, the compounds are used as oxygen scavengers and in barrier compositions and articles.