A catalytic converter is an emissions control device installed in the exhaust system of gasoline, diesel, and hybrid vehicles. Its purpose is to reduce harmful pollutants produced during combustion before they are released into the atmosphere.
Inside every catalytic converter is a ceramic or metallic substrate coated with precious metals, including platinum, palladium, and rhodium (PGMs). As exhaust gases pass through the converter, these metals act as catalysts, triggering chemical reactions that convert harmful emissions such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides into less harmful gases like carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor.
Catalytic converters contain valuable precious metals that can be recovered and reused. Recycling these materials conserves natural resources, reduces the environmental impact of mining, and helps ensure a stable supply of the metals needed to manufacture new catalytic converters and other advanced technologies.
At Refined Catalyst Solutions, every converter is processed using a transparent, data-driven approach. Through decanning, milling, sampling, and laboratory analysis, we accurately determine the precious metal content of each converter/lot, allowing our customers to receive fair, market-based values while supporting a more sustainable circular economy.
Transforms harmful gases (CO, NOx, HCs) into less harmful emissions through a chemical reaction using precious metals (Platinum, Palladium, Rhodium).
Where combustion happens. Exhaust gases leave the engine carrying CO, NOx, and unburned hydrocarbons.
Collects exhaust from each cylinder and channels it toward the converter.
Honeycomb coated with Pt, Pd, and Rh. Converts harmful gases into less harmful emissions.
Reduces noise. Sits between the converter and the tailpipe.
Final exit. Clean(er) exhaust leaves the vehicle here.
The three metals catalyze harmful exhaust emissions into safer, less harmful gases.
Oxidation catalyst. Converts CO and unburned hydrocarbons into CO₂ and water. Workhorse of diesel-style converters.
Oxidation catalyst optimized for gasoline. Converts CO and unburned hydrocarbons into CO₂ and water. Took the dominant share of converter loadings during the 2010s.
Reduction catalyst. Converts nitrogen oxides (NOx) into N₂. Generally present in smaller amounts, but essential to the catalytic converter's function.