What is a Three-Way Catalytic Converter Made of?
2 Answers
The exterior of a three-way catalytic converter is constructed with double-layer stainless steel sheets formed into a cylindrical shape. Between the double-layer sheets, there is an insulating material—asbestos fiber felt. Inside, a purifying agent is placed within the mesh partitions. Below is relevant information about the three-way catalytic converter: 1. The three-way catalytic converter is the most important external purification device installed in a vehicle's exhaust system. 2. It converts harmful gases such as CO, HC, and NOx emitted from vehicle exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions. 3. It features stable performance, reliable quality, and a long lifespan, making it widely suitable for models from Toyota, Honda, Buick, Audi, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Suzuki, Changhe, and others. 4. The three-way catalytic converter is used to purify exhaust gases, reducing pollutants in the emissions, which benefits environmental protection. It is installed on the exhaust pipe of every vehicle.
I have studied automotive exhaust systems and know that the three-way catalytic converter mainly consists of four components: the outer layer is a robust steel shell, responsible for isolating heat and impact; inside there is a honeycomb substrate, typically made of ceramic or metal, with densely packed small holes to increase surface area; these small holes are coated with a layer of washcoat, a powdery substance like alumina, providing adhesion; the most critical part is the embedded catalysts, including precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which accelerate chemical reactions at high temperatures, converting carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen, achieving environmental purification. The design considers durability and efficiency, requiring materials that can withstand high temperatures and corrosion; otherwise, it can easily fail, leading to excessive emissions or engine malfunctions.
