C gels and C-Ni-Pd composites were prepd. by condensation of resorcinol with CH2O in an aq. soln. in presence of Na2CO3 or (AcO)(2)Ni and PdCl2 catalysts, resp. The gels and composites (Ni and Pd contents 5% by mass each) were carbonized at 900 degrees C for 3 h and studied by voltammetry, X-ray anal., SEM and thermal anal., optionally after addn. thermal treatment in air at 450 degrees C for 30 min. The electrodes made of C gels and C-Ni-Pd composites showed an electrochem. activity in KOH esp. after thermal treatment.