How Catalytic Converters Work
How does a catalytic converter work?
A catalytic converter is a component used in vehicles to reduce the emission of harmful gases. It works by converting pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons into less harmful substances such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor. The core of the catalytic converter is made of a ceramic or metallic substrate that is coated with catalyst metals, typically platinum, palladium, and rhodium. When exhaust gases pass through the converter, chemical reactions facilitated by the catalyst metals occur, transforming the toxic gases into less harmful emissions that are then expelled through the vehicle’s exhaust system.