An overview of the synthesis, structure, property and application of copper(II) and nickel(II) complexes of salicylaldehyde semicarbazone derivatives

Different semicarbazone Schiff base ligands, prepared by the condensation of a semicarbazide and a salicylaldehyde derivative, have been used in the synthesis of varieties of mono-, di-, tri, tetra- and poly-nuclear complexes with several transition and non-transition metals. This review focuses on the synthesis of nickel(II) and copper(II) complexes with these semicarbazone Schiff base ligands. The X-ray structures, different biological activity and magnetic property of these complexes are also discussed. This review represents the synthesis, structure and application of copper and nickel complexes with salicylaldehyde semicarbazone ligands. • Discussions on synthesis and structures of the copper and nickel complexes. • Brief discussion on the biological application of the complexes. • Brief discussion on the catalytic activity of the complexes. • Discussion on DNA interactions of the complexes.