Complex formation equilibria of some aromatic beta-amino-alcohols

Complex formation equilibria of some aromatic beta-amino-alcohols with zinc(II), cadmium(II) and silver(I) have been investigated. The structure of the considered ligands (2-amino-1-phenyl-1-propanol, 2-amino-3-phenyl-1-propanol and 2-amino-1,3-propanediol) are similar to some hormones and alcaloids, like adrenaline, noradrenaline and ephedrine, and differ each other for the number and the relative position of alcoholic and phenyl groups. Equilibria constants at 25 degrees C and micro = 0.5 M (KNO3) have been determined by potentiometric titrations. The comparison of the obtained values with those previously determined for some aliphatic beta-amino-alcohols with the same polar heads has allowed to evidence the influence of aromatic ring on the coordinating properties of ligands, which is different depending on the considered metal ion. In particular, two contrasting effects have been evidenced. The electron withdrawing effect of the aromatic ring causes a decrease of amine basicity, more relevant when phenyl and hydroxylic groups are in 1-3 position, which reflects in a reduction of metal-NH2 coordination bond. This effect is predominant in the case of zinc(II) complexes and causes a reduction of complex stability which results directly proportional to the amine group basicity. On the other hand, in the case of silver(I) and cadmium(II) complexes, phenyl group seems to contribute directly to the coordination of the metal ion causing a stabilization of complexes.