Catecholase activity assessment of In-Situ copper complexes derived from a novel Schiff base ligand

Abstract

This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of catecholase activity in a series of in-situ copper complexes derived from a novel Schiff base ligand, 2,2′{(methylimino)bis[propanediylnitrilo(Z)methylylidene]}bis(5-methoxyphenol) (MBPM). The ligand MBPM and its complex [Cu(MBPM)] were successfully synthesized and characterized using various analytical techniques, including X-ray crystallography, IR spectroscopy, and 1H NMR spectroscopy. Subsequently, we investigated the catalytic activity of these complexes in the oxidation of catechol to o-quinone. The results revealed a remarkable difference in catecholase activity between the Schiff base ligand-derived complex, [Cu(MBPM)], and in-situ copper complexes. The [Cu(MBPM)] complex exhibited significantly higher catalytic activity, underscoring its potential as an efficient catalyst for catechol oxidation. This enhanced activity can be attributed to structural differences and the presence of multiple active sites within the [Cu(MBPM)] complex.