Properties of three types of AKP granular activated cokes (Gryfskand/Poland) used for flue gas treatment in industrial waste incineration plants were analyzed. As a reference material activated coke FAK-5 (CarboTech/Germany) was used, commonly applied in BF technologies. Mechanical and physico-chemical properties of the analyzed materials, as well as their porous structure were determined. It was proven that intensive activation contributed to the increase of specific surface area from 218 to 386 m(2)/g and greater volume of micropores. Moreover, significant weakening of mechanical properties and increased chemical use of carbon material were observed. Methodology for testing adsorptive capacity of SO2 and Hg, and catalytic activity of NO reduction - under conditions similar to industrial ones - was developed. It was shown that the adsorptive activity of activated cokes for SO2 and Hg was a linear function of a specific surface area. Catalytic properties with relation to nitric oxides depend on the content of ash and elementary carbon. It was proven that the intensity of activation should be a compromise between good sorptive properties and appropriate mechanical and catalytic properties. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.