Synthesis, characterization and bio-activity assessment of copper complex based on a novel terpolymer

In this study, a novel terpolymer was successfully obtained via the polycondensation polymerization of p-phenylenediamine and 2-aminothiazole with formaldehyde, employing dimethylformamide as a catalyst. The molar ratio of 1:1:2 for the reacting monomers yielded the newly devised p-phenylenediamine-2-aminothiazole-formaldehyde (P2ATF) terpolymer. Subsequently, the terpolymer was utilized as a ligand to form a copper complex by combining it with Cu2+ ions. To check the structure of both the terpolymer and its copper complex, a comprehensive array of techniques like Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and elemental analysis were employed. Gel permeation chromatography was employed to determine the average terpolymer molecular weight. The surface characteristics of the terpolymer and its metal complex were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, providing insights into their morphology. Furthermore, the thermal properties of the terpolymer and its metal complex were examined using thermogravimetric analysis, allowing for an assessment of their thermal breakdown behavior. They also were subjected to biological evaluations against a diverse range of microorganisms, encompassing Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger. The findings from these assessments provide valuable insights into the potential biological activities of both the ligand and its complex, enhancing our understanding of their potential applications.