Deactivated sorbents from the oil industry were carbonized and used as supports which after promotion with Fe oxides were tested in selective catalytic reaction (SCR). The catalysts were characterized by N-2 sorption, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and temperature-programmed desorption ammonia. Catalysts were active at a medium temperature range (similar to473-573 K). Selectivity to N-2 was 100%. Oxygen content influenced catalytic performance. H2O led to reversible poisoning, while SO2 addition to the SCR mixture resulted in irreversible poisoning.