Abstract
Neutral complexes of Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II), and Zn(II) have been synthesized from the oxamide-based ligand derived from leucine and diethyloxalate. The structural features have been deduced from their microanalytical, IR, UV/Vis, mass, H-1 and C-13 NMR spectral data. The Co(II) and Ni(II) chelates have octahedral geometries and the Cu(II) chelate is a square-pyramidal geometry. The non-electrolytic and monomeric nature of the complexes is shown by their magnetic susceptibility and low conductance data. The biological activities of the ligand and its metal chelates against gram-positive and negative bacteria and fungi are also reported. All the compounds are antimicrobially active and show higher activity than the free ligand.