Rape-seed grains were pyrolysed in fluidised-bed reactors on a laboratory scale. The distribution of the pyrolysis products at temperatures of 500 to 700 degrees C was investigated. Mass balances were obtained considering all product fractions. At reactor temperatures of 500 and 600 degrees C fatty acids and fatty acid derivatives were obtained, accompanied by aliphatic gases and fluids. At a higher temperature (700 degrees C) gases were the main products; an aromatic oil was obtained and no fatty acids were observed.