Synthesis and characterization schiff base and complexes with Copper (II) and Iron (II) and their application as antibacterial agents

The Schiff base N-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)chitosan and its complexes with copper(II) and iron(II) were synthesized and applied as antibacterial agent. The Schiff base and its complexes characterized by UV-Vis, FTIR spectrophotometer and XRD diffractometer. Antibacterial activity of the Schiff base and its complexes toward Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria were assessed by paper disc diffusion method. Electronic transition indicated the absorption of azomethine group from Schiff Base and absorption of d-d transition from metal ion. FTIR characterization of Schiff base indicated the azomethine group have been formed. Absorption Schiff base shifted indicating coordinated to metal ion. X-ray diffractometer studies show the formation of complexes decreased of cristalinity of chitosan. The complexes of copper(II) and iron(II) with N-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)chitosan have antibacterial activities bigger than the Schiff Base or pure chitosan attributed to the increased lipophilic nature of the complexes arising due to chelation. (paper)