Schiff base metal complexes: Synthesis, characterization, thermal analysis and antibacterial activity

Cu(II), Co(II), Ni(II) and Mn(II) complexes with the Schiff base (SB) derived from the condensation of 2-aminophenol with salicylaldehyde were synthesized. The complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, molar conductivity, magnetic moment, FT-IR, UV-vis and ESI-MS spectrometry as well as thermal analyses. The conductivity data of the complexes confirmed their non-electrolytic nature. Square-planar geometry was suggested for Cu(II) and Ni(II) complex and tetrahedral structure suggested for Co(II) and Mn(II) complex. The prepared complexes and ligand were screened in-vitro for their antimicrobial activity against gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus cereus) and gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli.) In all the cases, metallation increased the antimicrobial activity compared with the free ligand.