Recent developments in palladium (nano)catalysts supported on polymers for selective and sustainable oxidation processes.

• Advances in oxidations by polymer-supported palladium nanoparticles and complexes, are described. • Synthetic methods are highlighted for attaining the polymer-supported palladium catalysts. • Catalytic oxidation of alcohols, olefins, alkenes, carbon monoxide, etc. are presented. • Future challenges and opportunities on oxidation reactions using Pd catalysts, are discussed. This review describes the recent advances in the fabrication, characterization and applications of palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs)/complexes supported on polymers. Nanostructured materials and NPs of various natures, shapes and sizes in combination with polymers, provide unique physicochemical properties and significant potential applications. An overview in catalysis encompassing the preparation of polymer-supported Pd nanocatalysts and Pd complexes for the oxidation of alcohols, olefins, alkenes, carbon monoxide, etc. is presented. Heterogeneous oxidation catalysis, a vital tool in chemical synthesis and transformations, includes the development of various synthetic strategies for the fabrication of Pd-based catalysts; eminent role played by polymer supports in the morphological and structural properties of the ensuing catalysts, is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]