Abstract

Ternary complexes of Cu(II) with acetylacetone and various salicylic acids (viz., salicylic, 5-chloro-, 3,5-dibromo-, 3,5-dinitro-, thio-, and acetyl-salicylic acids) were synthesised in pure state and these complexes were characterised by elemental analysis, conductivity, IR data and optical absorption. The antibacterial and antifungal activity studies on these complexes revealed that the ternary complexes are better toxic agents than the binary complexes against certain bacteria and fungi studied. The lipo-philic tendency of these complexes was also studied. Ascorbic acid markedly decreases the antimicrobial activity of the ternary complexes while traces of cobalt completely suppresses their toxic action in many cases. Based on these results probable mechanisms for the antimicrobial activity of these complexes are discussed.