Its coordination complexes are of theoretical interest as models for enzymes and as catalysts.

Dimethylglyoxime can be prepared from butanone first by reaction with ethyl nitrite to give biacetyl monoxime.

2,3-Butanediamine is produced by reduction of dimethylglyoxime with lithium aluminium hydride.

[2] Dimethylglyoxime forms complexes with metals including nickel,[3] palladium and cobalt.

[4] These complexes are used to separate those cations from solutions of metal salts and in gravimetric analysis.