In situ evolved gas analysis assisted thermogravimetric (TG-FTIR and TG/DTA–MS) studies on non-activated copper benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate

•Thermogravimetry, coupled with in situ MS and FTIR analyses of the evolved gas.•Results from oxidative and inert media allow conclusions to be drawn about stoichiometry.•Conversion of Cu2O to CuO by 800°C confirmed by XRD.•All the retained water can be removed by 150°C.•Ethanol release (150–250°C) suggests ester formation on preventing crystal growth.