Is There a Market for Diesel Three-Way Catalytic Converters?
2 Answers
Diesel three-way catalytic converters are indeed recycled. Since these converters contain precious metals, repair shops collect them and sell them to upstream recyclers. After refining, a certain amount of precious metals can be extracted from the converters, giving them high economic value. Driven by profit, a recycling industry chain has naturally emerged. Below is relevant information about three-way catalytic converters: Appearance: A three-way catalytic converter looks like a metal can from the outside, but inside it contains a 'substrate' for purifying exhaust gases. This honeycomb-shaped ceramic substrate is coated with a precious metal slurry, primarily composed of platinum, rhodium, and palladium. Exhaust purification function: The precious metals act as catalysts, reducing hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) in the exhaust into water and CO2, while breaking down nitrogen oxides (NOx) into nitrogen and oxygen. This is the exhaust purification function of a three-way catalytic converter.
With over a decade of experience in auto repair, I've encountered many diesel vehicle owners curious about whether someone buys catalytic converters. The answer is yes—these parts are indeed recycled, especially by scrap metal dealers or specialized dismantling companies. Diesel catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum and rhodium, making them valuable to recyclers. While diesel converters may fetch slightly lower prices than gasoline ones, undamaged units can still bring in some cash. I recommend checking quotes from local scrap yards or online platforms first to avoid wasting resources. Just remember to handle pollutants carefully during removal to prevent environmental contamination—safety always comes first.
