Widely used as a heterogeneous catalyst in organic synthesis, particularly in hydrogenation reactions. It efficiently promotes the addition of hydrogen to alkenes, alkynes, nitriles, and aromatic compounds under mild conditions. Commonly employed in the reduction of nitro groups to amines, which is critical in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Also used in deprotection reactions, such as the removal of benzyl groups in peptide and nucleotide synthesis. Its support on activated charcoal provides high surface area and stability, allowing for easy filtration and reuse in industrial processes. Frequently applied in cross-coupling reactions like Suzuki, Heck, and Sonogashira couplings, enabling the formation of carbon-carbon bonds in fine chemicals and drug intermediates.