What Material is the Three-Way Catalytic Converter Made Of?
2 Answers
The three-way catalytic converter is made of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), with a stainless steel outer shell. Below is an introduction to the three-way catalytic converter: 1. Working Principle: When high-temperature exhaust gases pass through the purification device, the catalyst in the three-way catalytic converter enhances the activity of CO, HC, and NOx gases, facilitating oxidation-reduction reactions that convert them into harmless gases. 2. Causes of Three-Way Catalytic Converter Failure: Prolonged idling; delayed ignition timing; excessively rich fuel mixture; engine oil burning; oxygen sensor failure; overheating due to incomplete cooling; switching off the engine while driving.
The main materials of a catalytic converter include a ceramic substrate and a precious metal coating. The ceramic part is typically made of cordierite material in a honeycomb structure, providing a large surface area to help harmful gases in the exhaust come into contact with the catalyst. The coating consists of precious metals such as platinum, palladium, or rhodium, which efficiently convert pollutants like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. The entire unit is encased in stainless steel or an iron shell for protection. From a car maintenance perspective, these materials are ingeniously designed to withstand high temperatures while ensuring catalytic efficiency. However, prolonged use of low-quality gasoline can easily clog the ceramic pores, so it's advisable to use clean gasoline and regularly inspect the exhaust pipe. If replacing a new catalytic converter, the high cost is primarily due to the expensive precious metals, but it's worth it because it significantly reduces exhaust pollution, making it an essential environmental component in modern cars. Always pay attention to the engine warning light and don't ignore minor issues to prevent damage.
