A catalytic converter is an emissions control device in a vehicle's exhaust system that transforms toxic gases—carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons—into less harmful substances like carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor. It uses precious metals (platinum, palladium, rhodium) to accelerate these chemical reactions.
Location: Installed between the engine's exhaust manifold and the muffler.
Internal Structure: It features a ceramic honeycomb structure, or substrate, coated with metals that maximize the surface area for chemical reactions.
Chemical Process: It uses two types of catalysts: Reduction (breaks down nitrogen oxides) and Oxidation (converts carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water).
High Temperature: It requires high temperatures, often exceeding 1,000∘F(538∘C), to operate efficiently.