Synthesis, spectral, photolysis and electrochemical studies of mononuclear copper(II) complex with a new asymmetric tetradentate ligand: Application as copper nanoparticle precursor

A copper(II) complex with asymmetric tetradentate Schiff base ligand, obtained by the single condensation of 1,2-diaminopropane with 2-hydroxy-5-methoxy benzaldehyde was prepared. The ligand and complex were characterized by their IR, UV–Vis, FT-IR, NMR spectra and CV. Crystal structures of the mononuclear copper complex have been obtained by X-ray diffraction studies which revealed to be distorted square planner coordination geometry. The spectral data confirm coordination of ligand to copper ion center. The redox properties of complex at different scan rates exhibit grossly similar features consisting of an electrochemically pseudo-reversible Cu(II)/Cu(I) reduction at ca. −0.97 V and pseudo-reversible Cu(I)/Cu(II) oxidation at ca. −0.81 V. The copper nanoparticles with average size of 73 nm were formed by thermal reduction of copper complex in the presence of triphenylphosphine.

Graphical abstractPhotochemical and electrochemical characterization of a copper(II) complex with a new Schiff base was studied. The copper(II) complex was applied as new precursor for synthesis of copper nanoparticle.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A new asymmetric tetradentate Schiff base derived from 1,2-diaminopropane is reported. ► Copper(II) complex was applied as copper nanoparticle precursor. ► The redox properties of complex exhibit pseudo-reversible Cu(II)/Cu(I) reduction and Cu(I)/Cu(II) oxidation.