Schiff base metal complexes as a versatile catalyst: A review

This review presents the catalytic application of Schiff Base in different chemical reactions. Schiff base ligands consist of imine (-C=N-) functional group derived from the condensation of primary amine (R-NH2) and carbonyl compounds (R1R2-C=O). Schiff base complexes of V (IV), Mn (II), Ni (II), and Mo (VI) are used as catalysts against the epoxidation of various alkenes. Fe (II) and Cu (II) are used in the oxidation of catechol. Henry reaction is catalyzed by Mn(II) and Cu(II) whereas Michael addition reaction is catalyzed by Co(II) complexes of Schiff base. Zn(II) and Ru (II) Schiff base complexes are used in cyclopropanation reactions with various alkenes and alkene derivatives. Rh(I) complexes of Schiff base are used as a precatalyst in the hydroformylation reactions. Pd(II) Schiff base complexes are used in the oxidation of thioanisole whereas Pt(II) complexes are used in the hydrogenative silylation of styrene. Highly catalytic active Schiff base metal complexes are required to improve the yields of chemical reactions. In terms of stereo, regio, and chemoselectivity, these catalyst exhibits a wide spectrum of selectivity and now attracting the attention of scientists in the industrial as well as research fields. This review highlights the Schiff base metal complexes research, which will provide more insight for the researchers as well as for the industries, working in the field of Schiff-base catalysis.