Synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity of salen-type Schiff base polychelates

Polymeric complexes of Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) with Schiff base derived from 4,4'-bis-[(salicylaldehyde-5)azo]biphenyl and 1,3-diaminopropane have been synthesized and characterized by microanalysis, IR, and electronic spectra and magnetic moment data. All these complexes are dark coloured and insoluble in water and most of the common organic solvents. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated the presence of coordinated water in complexes. The solid-state conductivity of the ligand and its polychelates was studied in the temperature range 313-413 K and chelates were found to show semiconducting behaviour. The Mn(II), Pe(II), Co(II) and Ni(II) polychelates have also been assessed for the catalytic epoxidation of styrene.