Copper Nanoparticle‐Based Catalysts Supported on Nanocarbons: Synthesis and Applications in the Hydrogenation of CO ₂ and Biomass‐Derived Platform Molecules

The catalytic conversion of CO 2 and biomass‐derived platform molecules into high‐value chemicals, such as methanol and alcohols, is pivotal for a circular, low‐carbon economy. Copper nanoparticles (CuNPs), derived from an abundant and cost‐effective metal, are highly efficient catalysts for these transformations, yet their stability and selectivity remain critical challenges. Nanocarbons–including graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and carbon nanofibers (CNFs)–have emerged as innovative supports, offering high surface area, exceptional thermal/chemical stability, and tunable functionalization to anchor CuNPs and modulate reactivity. This review focuses on recent advances (2015–2025) in the synthesis of CuNPs/nanocarbon nanocomposites and their applications in CO 2 hydrogenation to methanol and biomass‐derived molecule upgrading. We analyze support functionalization strategies (e.g., nitrogen doping, textural engineering) and deposition methods (e.g., impregnation, deposition–precipitation), highlighting their impact on nanoparticle dispersion, selectivity, and catalytic stability. Performance trends for binary (Cu/ZnO, Cu/ZrO 2 ) and ternary systems are critically compared, alongside persistent challenges such as sintering and deactivation. A comprehensive overview of experimental data underscores the potential of nanocarbon‐supported catalysts to enhance process sustainability. Finally, we propose future directions for designing optimized hybrid catalysts, leveraging the synergistic advantages of nanocarbons and multimodal systems, to accelerate the transition toward sustainable chemical processes.