Synthesis, photochromic, and electrochromic properties of a Schiff-base pyrazolone: An experimental and theoretical study

Schiff-base pyrazolone derivatives have garnered significant attention due to their intriguing photochromic and electrochromic properties, which hold promise for applications in molecular switches, sensors, and advanced optical materials. Schiff base, 5-methyl-2-phenyl-4-(phenyl-o-tolylamino-methylene)-2,4-dihydropyrazol-3-one (PMBP-2A1MB), was synthesized and characterized by means of NMR, IR, LC-MS, and UV-Vis absorption spectra. This research paper aims to dive into the synthesis and photochromic and electrochromic properties of Schiff base pyrazolone derivative. The photochromic study was investigated using 365 and 430 nm light and shows good results. The electrochromic study was conducted using a cyclic voltammetry study, which demonstrates quasi-reversibility in nature. Theoretical calculations were performed using geometries optimized at the B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) level of theory. By integrating these aspects, we seek to enhance the understanding of photoisomerization and structure-property relationships.