Monomeric Schiff base derived from salicy-laidehyde and 1,3-diaminopropane was subjected to poly-condensation reaction with formaldehyde and piperazine in basic medium. The resin was found to form polychelates readily with Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) metal ions. The materials were characterized by elemental analysis, spectral studies (IR, H-1-NMR, C-13-NMR, and UV-visible), magnetic moment measurements, and thermal analysis. The electronic spectra and magnetic moment measurements of the synthesized polychelates confirmed the geometry of the central metal ion. Metal-resin bonds were registered in the IR spectra of the polychelates. The thermogravimetric analysis data indicated that the polychelates were more stable than the corresponding polymeric Schiff base. All the synthesized metal-polychelates showed excellent antibacterial activities against the selected bacteria. The antimicrobial activities were determined by using the shaking flask method, where 25 mg/mL concentrations of each compound were tested against 10(5) CFU/mL bacteria solutions. The number of viable bacteria was calculated by using the spread-plate method, where 100 mu L. of the incubated antimicrobial agent in bacteria solutions were spread on agar plates, and the number of bacteria was counted after 24 h of incubation period at 37 degrees C. (C) 2009 Wile), Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 113: 1671-1679, 2009