Pyrolysis-GC/MS system with on-line micro-furnace was used to make rapid evaluation of omega-chloroacetophenone (CN) decomposition under inert thermal atmospheres. The volatile products evolved during pyrolysis were analyzed by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and Py-GC/MS to obtain specific thermogram and pyrogram. Thermal gravimetric analysis results showed that CN undergoes sublimation at 167 degrees C prior to its decomposition at 229 degrees C. Totally 45 degradation products were identified based on mass spectral library matching with the aid of correlation of the values of boiling point (bp) and retention time. A large number of mono-aromatics and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were observed beyond 600 degrees C. In addition to the aromatic hydrocarbons, oxygenated compounds were also observed during the pyrolysis process. The pyrolysis mechanism was proposed based on the determined pyrolysates and their relative abundance with temperature. The investigation results can provide significant information for understanding the thermal behavior of CN and evaluation of the potential influence of the pyrolysates to living being and the environment. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.