A pure, high surface area and cost-effective carbon-based material with possible application in electrochemical processes was synthesized from industrial sludge. Surface characterization included N-2-adsorption isotherm data and mathematical models such as the DR equation, and BJH methods. The extent of the purity was assessed from thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The electrochemical properties, i.e. the potential use as electrode in Li ion batteries, were evaluated using conventional electrochemical testing such as charge/discharge cycling and impedance spectroscopy. The results of the data analysis were promising and indicated that paper mill sludge can be successfully used to produce a pure carbon for potential use in electrochemical applications. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.