Biomimetic complexes of Cd(II), Mn(II), and Zn(II) with 1,1-diaminobutane–Schiff base. EGA/MS study of the thermally induced decomposition

Frequently, in addition to X-ray and spectroscopic approaches, thermal analysis is the method of choice for comprehensive characterization of precipitated metal complexes. However, thermogravimetry itself is not sufficient enough for explaining complex decomposition or releasing steps. For correct elucidation of the decomposition mechanism of biomimetic Cd(II), Mn(II), and Zn(II) complexes with 1,1-diaminobutane–Schiff base, evolved gas analysis by mass spectrometry (EGA/MS) was used to define the thermally induced steps. Those were synthesized and characterized by hyphenated thermogravimetry-mass spectrometry (TG–MS) that allowed to interpret the decomposition steps.