Synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial evaluation of transition metal complexes of monodentate 2-(Substituted phenyl) -1H-benzo[d]imidazoles

Abstract

The synthesis, spectral characterization and antimicrobial activity of copper(II) chloride, nickel(II) chloride and cobalt(II) chloride complexes of the monodentate 2-(substituted phenyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole ligands are represented in this research article. The complex formation of metal(II) ions were taken with 2-substituted benzimidazole ligands in 1:2 mole ratio in ethanolic solution. Both benzimidazole ligands (BZa) and (BZb) were derived from o-phenylenediamine by the cyclocondensation with 4,5-dimethoxy-2-nitro benzaldehyde and 3-bromo-4-hydroxy-5-methoxy benzaldehyde respectively. The in vitro study of antimicrobial activity of benzimidazole ligands and their metal complexes was done on bacterial strains (E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, S. pyogenes), and fungicidal strains (C. albicans, A. niger and A. clavatus). The antimicrobial results showed that the benzimidazole complexes were more active against bacterial and fungicidal strains than their corresponding ligands. Most benzimidazole complexes were active against the bacterial strains whereas only one benzimidazole complex was active against fungicidal strains.