The paper describes the synthesis and thermal decomposition of nickel(II)bis(oxalato)nickelate(II)pentahydrate, Ni[Ni(C2O4)2].5H2O. The complex was characterized by elemental analysis, infrared, electronic, e.s.r., magnetic moment measurement and X-ray powder diffraction studies. The thermal decompostion of the complex led to NiO in air at about 338° and in nitrogen at about 720°. The activation energies (E*) for the dehydration and decompostion reactions in air and nitrogen were evaluated. Tentative reaction mechanisms have been suggested for the termal decompostion of the complex in air and nitrogen. © 1990 Wiley Heyden Ltd, Chichester and Akadémiai Kiadó, Budapest.