Thermogravimetry, differential thermal, X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy analyses showed La(CH3COO)3·1.5H2O to decompose completely at 700°C yielding La2O3. The results revealed that the compound dehydrates in two steps at 130 and 180°C, and recrystallizes at 210°C. Water thus produced hydrolyzes surface acetates (at 310°C), releasing acetic acid into the gas phase. At 334°C, the anhydrous acetate releases gas phase CH3COCH3 to give La2(CO3)3 residue, which decomposes to La2O2(CO3) via the intermediate La2O(CO3)2. On further heating up to 700°C, La2O3 is formed. IR spectroscopy of the gaseous products indicated a chemical reactivity at gas/solid interfaces formed throughout the decomposition course. As a result, CH3COCH3 was involved in a surface-mediated, bimolecular reaction, releasing CH4 and C4H8 (isobutene) into the gas phase.