The application of polymer-based spherical activated carbon (PBSAC) as catalyst support offers unprecedented advantages in the handling of the catalyst in all stages of its application due to its superior fluid dynamic properties and dust-free character, minimizing post processing times and facilitating catalyst recycling. The preparation of PBSAC-based Pd catalysts has been addressed using PBSAC of different particle sizes and degrees of activation. Prior to Pd deposition, the support was oxidized in nitric and sulfuric acidic media under different operating conditions in order to introduce surface charges for the ion exchange. This method was successfully applied as, even for the mildest functionalization conditions, full deposition of Pd was achieved. The synthesized Pd-PBSAC catalysts were successfully employed in the hydrogenation of cinnamic acid achieving its complete conversion at an optimum effective rate constant of 0.122m(3)kg(Pd)(-1)s(-1).