Synthesis, Characterization, and Properties of a Schiff Base and its Cu(II) Complex

The present study focuses on the preparation of a Schiff base, specifically salicylaldehyde-o-aminophenol, and its copper(II) complex. The ligand was synthesized through the condensation of o-aminophenol and salicylaldehyde using a mixed solvent system of water and ethanol. The resulting Schiff base and its complex were characterized using several techniques, including infrared (IR) spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), magnetic susceptibility measurements, and chemical analysis. Based on the results from thermogravimetric and elemental analyses, the proposed empirical formula for the complex is [Cu(C13H9NO2)(H2O)]. Geometry optimization studies confirmed that the structure is stable, and the moderate HOMO-LUMO gap suggests good stability and reactivity. Molecular docking studies indicated a strong binding affinity with biological targets, highlighting potential applications in medicinal chemistry. Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 74(1): 46-53, 2026 (January)