What is the use of recycling three-way catalytic converter powder?
2 Answers
Introduction to the function of recycling three-way catalytic converter powder: The three-way catalytic converter contains various rare metals that can be recycled and reused, which is also beneficial for environmental protection. Every car is equipped with a three-way catalytic converter, which is used to reduce toxic and harmful substances in vehicle exhaust. The three-way catalytic converter is installed at the front section of the vehicle's exhaust pipe. Below is relevant information about catalytic converters: 1. Under normal working conditions, catalytic converters generate a significant amount of reaction heat due to oxidation reactions, allowing performance evaluation through temperature difference comparison. Start the engine, warm it up to normal operating temperature, maintain the engine speed at around 2500r/min, and lift the vehicle. 2. If the vehicle is equipped with a secondary catalytic converter before the main catalytic converter, the outlet temperature of the main catalytic converter should be 15~20% higher than the inlet temperature. If the outlet temperature is below this range, the catalytic converter is not functioning properly and needs replacement. If the outlet temperature exceeds this range, it indicates an abnormally high concentration of CO and HC in the exhaust, requiring further inspection of the engine itself.
I've been into cars for many years and understand how three-way catalytic converter powder recycling works. Simply put, those powders are extracted from used catalytic converters, mainly to recover the precious metals platinum, rhodium, and palladium inside. These metals are extremely valuable, just like gold, and are particularly useful in manufacturing new catalytic converters or electronic products. Why recycle? On one hand, it saves a significant amount of money since mining new ores is costly and environmentally damaging. On the other hand, it reduces the pollution risk from waste—discarded catalytic converters, if thrown away carelessly, can leach heavy metals into the soil and water, harming nature. The recycling process is usually handled by specialized companies, involving mechanical crushing followed by chemical treatment to extract the metal powders. This is not only cost-effective but also promotes sustainable development in the automotive industry. I recommend car owners who replace their catalytic converters not to toss them as trash—selling them to recycling centers can earn some extra cash while supporting environmental protection. In short, recycling is a win-win—profitable and planet-friendly—and well worth advocating.
