Experimental results of benzene and nitrogen adsorption from gaseous phase and benzene adsorption and kinetics of the process from aqueous solution, measured on a series of eight commercial closed carbon nanotubes, are presented. Additionally we show the results of adsorption on compressed nanotubes. Using simple analytical approach and the analysis of adsorption and kinetics results it is concluded that in the "architecture" of nanotubes very important role has been played by isolated nanotubes. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.