The thermal dissociation of a number of salicylato(amine)cobalt(III) c
omplexes has been studied by thermogravimetry, differential temperatur
e analysis, UV-visible spectral analysis of intermediates and XRD of t
he final products. The final decomposition product was found to be Co3
O4. Dissociation of [Co(en)(2)(amine)salH](NO3)(2) passed through the
intermediate [Co(en)(2)sal]. The intermediate was characterised by UV-
visible spectral analysis. The complexes containing chelating salicyla
te were found to be more stable than those with unidentate ligand and
also more stable than unbound salicylic acid.