Synthesis, characterization, and thermal investigation of some transition metal complexes of benzopyran-4-one Schiff base as thermal stabilizers for rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)

New metal complexes of Schiff base (PB) prepared from condensation reaction of 2-aminopyridine and 6-formyl-5,7-dihydroxy-2-methylbenzopyran-4-one with metal ions; Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II) are prepared. Different analysis tools like elemental analyses, FTIR, thermal analysis, conductivity, electronic spectra, and magnetic susceptibility measurements are all used to elucidate the structures of the newly prepared metal complexes. The free Schiff base (PB) has been examined as thermal stabilizer and co-stabilizer for rigid PVC in air, at 180 °C. Its high stabilizing efficiency is detected by its high induction period value (Ts) when compared with some of the common reference stabilizers used industrially, such as dibasic lead carbonate and calcium–zinc stearate (Ca–Zn soap). Blending Schiff base or its metal complexes with Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II) ions with the reference stabilizers in different ratios had a synergistic effect on the induction period (thermal stability). The stabilizing efficiency is attributed at least partially to the ability of the stabilizer to be incorporated in the polymeric chains, thus disrupting the chain degradation process.