Solvent free synthesis, spectral correlation and antimicrobial activities of some 2E 4′-nitrochalcones

A series containing twelve substituted styryl 4′-nitrophenyl ketones have been synthesized using solvent free SiO2-H2SO4 catalysed aldol reaction under microwave condition. The yield of chalcones is found to be more than 80%. These synthesized ketones have been characterized by their physical constants and spectral data. The spectral frequencies of these chalcones have been correlated with Hammett substituent constants, F and R parameters. From the results of statistical analyses the effect of substituents on the frequencies has been predicted. The antimicrobial activities of all ketones have also been studied with the help of Bauer-Kirby method.