Honeycomb-like graphitic macroporous carbon (HGMC) was synthesized by means of pyrolysis of NH(4)HCO(3) using Mg powder as reductant in an autoclave at 550 degrees C. The characterization of structure and morphology was carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Raman spectrum, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and (High-resolution) transmission electron microscope [(HR)TEM]. The results of nitrogen adsorption-desorption indicate that the products are macropore materials with the pore size of 1-3 mu m, and the Brunauer-Emett-Teller (BET) surface area was 14 m(2)/g. As a typical morphology, the possible growth process of HGMC was also investigated and discussed. The experimental results show that the in situ formed MgO microparticles play a template role during the HGMC formation. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.