A Chlorine Gas-Free Synthesis of Dichloroglyoxime

A new procedure for the synthesis and isolation of dichloroglyoxime is discussed. This material has historically been synthesized from glyoxime and elemental chlorine gas. Chlorine gas is difficult to handle and control in the laboratory and has a high toxicity profile. Our method for making dichloroglyoxime in high purity uses glyoxime and N-chlorosuccinimide in DMF, with a lithium chloride-based workup. Overall yields are comparable with those obtained using the procedure involving the use of chlorine gas.