Synthesis and characterization of new chromium, molybdenum and tungsten complexes of 2-[2-(methylaminoethyl)] pyridine

A green chemistry route of synthesis using direct sunlight irradiation for the reactions of [M(CO)6] M = Cr, Mo or W with 2-[2-(methylaminoethyl)] pyridine (maepy) in THF. The reactions resulted in the formation of the oxo complex [Cr2(O)4(maepy)2] (1) and the tetracarbonyl complexes [Mo(CO)4(maepy)] (2) and [W(CO)4(maepy)] (3). The prepared complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, IR, NMR, mass spectrometry and magnetic measurement. The complexes (1–3) were further investigated by thermogravimetric technique (TG). The biological activity of maepy and complexes as antibacterial and antifungal reagents have been investigated.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The reactions of [M(CO)6] M = Cr, Mo or W with 2-[2-(methylaminoethyl)] pyridine (maepy) using sunlight and microwave irradiation and the traditional reflux route. ► The complexes [Cr2(O)4(maepy)2] (1) and the tetracarbonyl complexes [Mo(CO)4(maepy)] (2) and [W(CO)4(maepy)] (3) were isolated and characterized. ► The biological activity of maepy and its complexes as antibacterial and antifungal reagents have been screened.