Two sorts of spherical carbons were prepared by a carbonization of phenolic resin-based spheres in both, N-2 and CO2 atmospheres. Values of N-2-BET specific surface area of the samples were very different. CO2 adsorption tests were performed for the obtained carbons. Total amount of CO2 adsorbed on the carbon spheres prepared in CO2 atmosphere was found as bigger than on the carbon obtained with use of N-2. In the case of the spheres prepared in N-2 atmosphere their area covered by adsorbed CO2 molecules was bigger than the surface area of the spheres estimated from N-2 adsorption isotherms. In spite of different gases used for the preparations, tested samples did not show significant differences in their surface chemistry. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.