The influence of Ni on the electrochemical performance of Fe containing bentonite-based electrode materials was investigated in the electrochemical oxidation of phenol in acidic solution. Clay originated from Mecji Do, Serbia, was submitted to pillaring. Mixed pillaring solutions containing Al3+ and Fe3+ or Al3+, Fe3+ and Ni2+ were used for this purpose. The XRD, chemical and FTIR analysis and nitrogen physisorption at -196 degrees C were used for sample characterization. The electrochemical behavior of the pillared clay-based electrodes was tested by cyclic voltammetry. The results confirmed that the pillaring was successful. The presence of Ni in the electrode material enhanced the electrode stability. It is possible that the presence of Ni restricted the electrode fouling caused by the formation of polymeric products during the electrooxidation of phenol. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.