We report here the characterization and electrochemistry of a new type of carbon nanofiber that was prepared in our laboratories. In addition, two different commercially available carbons, carbon black (Shawinigan black AB50P) and synthetic graphite (LK702) are studied in parallel to benchmark the properties of our carbon nanofibers. Physical characterizations include X-ray diffraction, methylene blue adsorption, Brunauner-Emmett-Teller surface area analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. Carbon electrochemistries are interrogated in coin-sized cells versus lithium electrodes. Correlations are noted, and explanations are offered to describe broader carbon structure/function relationships. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.