Cherry stones (CS) are carbonised at 400-1000 degrees C for 0-4 h in N-2 and the charcoals obtained are characterised to gain information about their chemical composition and porous texture, with a view to their use in the preparation of activated carbon. Depending on the heating conditions, the products obtained may possess a low ash content and a high fixed carbon content and are essentially microporous and macroporous solids. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.