Abstract High-temperature Raman spectra, x-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis of beta-alanine and beta-alanine doped with silver ions (Ag + ) crystals were obtained for temperatures in the range 313–423 K. Raman spectra are used to compare temperature dependence of the lattice mode of beta-alanine and doped beta-alanine. Several experimental features observed were interpreted in terms of the length and the geometry of the hydrogen bonds in the crystalline structure. Correlation between the hydrogen bonding and thermal decomposition was observed. Additionally, comparison between the results obtained with other amino acids was made.