Benzimidazolium-based novel silver N-heterocyclic carbene complexes: synthesis, characterisation and in vitro antimicrobial activity

This study reports the synthesis, characterisation and antimicrobial activity of five novel silver N-heterocyclic carbene (Ag-NHC) complexes obtained by N-propylphthalimide and N-methyldioxane substituted benzimidazolium salts with silver oxide. The reactions were performed at room temperature for 24 h in the absence of light. The obtained complexes were identified and characterised by 1 H and 13 C NMR, FT-IR and elemental analysis techniques. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the complexes was determined for E. coli, P. aeruginosa, E. faecalis, S. aureus, C. tropicalis and C. albicans in vitro through agar and broth dilution. The results indicated that these complexes exhibit antimicrobial activity. In particular, complex 3 presented the significant broad spectrum antimicrobial activity.