Synthesis,spectral, electrochemical and biological studies of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes with Schiff bases of 8-formyl-7-hydroxy-4-methyl coumarin

A series of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes have been synthesized with Schiff bases derived from 8-formyl-7-hydroxy-4-methyl coumarin and o-chloroaniline/o-toluidine. The structures of the complexes have been proposed from analytical, spectral (IR, UV-Vis, ESR and FAB-mass), magnetic, thermal and fluorescence studies. The complexes are soluble in DMF and DMSO and molar conductance values indicate the complexes are non-electrolytes. Elemental analyses indicate ML₂ · 2H₂O M = Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II)] stoichiometry. Spectroscopic studies (IR, UV-Vis, ESR and fluorescence) indicate octahedral geometry, in which ligand coordinates through azomethine nitrogen and phenolic oxygen via deprotonation. Thermal studies suggest coordination of water to the metal ion. Redox behavior of the complexes was investigated by cyclic voltammetry. The Schiff bases and their complexes were screened for their antibacterial (E. coli, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and S. typhi) and antifungal activities (A. niger, A. flavus and Cladosporium) by MIC method.