Cellular support structures of Ti-6Al-4V produced by selective electron beam melting were coated with microporous carbon using a combined chemical vapor deposition and carbide-derived carbon approach. The production method allows for a process specific design of the open cellular metal structure. High thermal and electrical conductivity of the metal substrate are combined with the high surface area of the carbon coating within the tailored catalyst support. The study shows that for a successful deposition of the microporous carbon a protective oxide layer on top of the metal structure is necessary. Samples were impregnated with platinum as active metal and successfully tested in the hydrogenation of ethene. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.