SYNTHESIS CHARACTERIZATION AND BIOCIDAL ACTIVITIES OF MAGANESE(II) AND NICKEL(II) WITH AMPICILLIN

This study explores the synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial activities of manganese(II) and nickel(II) complexes with ampicillin, emphasizing their potential biocidal applications. The metal complexes were synthesized using a direct mixing method in a water-methanol medium, with ligand-to-metal ratios of 1:1 and 1:2 to enhance stability and coordination. Characterization was performed using spectroscopic techniques such as UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy, along with gravimetric and complexometric titration for elemental analysis. These analyses provided valuable insights into metal-ligand interactions, electronic transitions, and structural properties, confirming the successful coordination of metal ions with ampicillin through the oxygen of the carboxylate ion and the nitrogen of the amide group in a bidentate manner. The biocidal activities of the synthesized metal complexes were tested against selected bacterial and fungal pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aspergillusniger, and Candida albicans. The results indicated significant microbial inhibition, suggesting that these complexes possess notable antimicrobial potential. However, while both the metal complexes and free ampicillin exhibited antimicrobial activity, their effectiveness was lower compared to standard antimicrobial agents. These findings highlight the potential application of such metal complexes in biomedical and pharmaceutical fields. Further research is needed to elucidate their precise mechanism of action, assess toxicity, and explore their broader applications in antimicrobial treatments and material coatings.