The gases evolved during the sintering of BaTiO 3 have been examined with a combined dilatometer and mass spectrometer (CDMS) apparatus. The CDMS acquires multiple mass/ charge ratios in real time while simultaneously recording dilatometry data. To identify the chemical composition of the numerous recorded mass/charge ratios, cracking patterns, isotopic abundances and decomposition reactions from model compounds (BaCO 3 , BaSO 4 ) were used. Three primary regions of gas evolution were identified. During the heating ramp and into the hold period at 1350°C, CO 2 appears, and below approximately 500°C, this may arise from adsorbed or surface CO 2 . Sulphur dioxide was also observed, and its evolution occurred directly after the majority of the CO 2 appeared and immediately preceded the onset of sintering. Above 1200°C, CO 2 is the primary species observed in the gas phase. The implications of the high temperature chemistry on sintering and on microstructural development are discussed.