Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of Some New Benzimidazole Derivatives Bearing the Salicyl Moiety

Abstract Sixteen new benzimidazole compounds bearing the salicyl moiety have been synthesized by cyclization of 4,5-dichloro/dimethyl-1,2-phenylenediamine with various salicylaldehydes. All the compounds were characterizated by spectral methods (FT-IR, 1 H NMR, ESI-MS and fluorescence spectroscopy) and elemental analysis. It is seen that the dichloro derivatives and 5-substitution of the phenolic ring shift the fluorescence radiation (emission) to the higher wavelength (red shift). Antimicrobial activities of the compounds were screened against six bacteria and a fungus. The dimethyl derivatives ( 9–16 ) are generally more active towards the microorganisms and show higher antifungal activity than the dichloro derivatives. The compound 13 , which is effective against all microorganisms, shows the broadest activity.