Abstract Some new transition metal complexes of the Schiff base ligand (FPTH) formed by condensation of fluorenone with 4-phenylthiosemicarbazide were prepared. Isolation of the solid metal (II) complexes depends on the metal salt used, pH and the reaction conditions. Characterization of these complexes has been made by elemental analyses, molar conductivities, NMR (1H, 13C), magnetic susceptibility, vissible studies and IR spectra. From EPR studies; symmetry and bonding character for paramagnetic copper(II) complex were determined. The polarographic and cyclic voltammetric curves of the Schiff base (FPTH) were recorded in Britton-Robinson buffer series of pH 3–10. The DC polarograms and the cyclic voltammograms exhibited a single 4-electron irreversible diffusion-controled reduction step represented the saturation of C=N and C=S electroactive centers. The corrosion inhibition of aluminium in HCl using FPTH is studied. The antimicrobial activity of ligand and its metal complexes has also been demonstrated.