What Is a Catalytic Converter?
A catalytic converter is an exhaust emission control device designed to reduce harmful gases that are released into the atmosphere. It works by catalyzing the chemical reaction of exhaust gases such as carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC). The catalytic converter is an essential part of any internal combustion engine and is mandated by most governments in order to protect the environment and human health.
How Does a Catalytic Converter Work?
A catalytic converter works by prompting chemical reactions that turn noxious, or harmful, gases into less harmful gases. Inside the converter, two types of catalyst are used to create the reaction. The first is a noble metal, such as platinum or palladium, which is used to oxidize harmful gases like hydrocarbons. The second is an alkaline “wash” or catalyst, such as potassium hydroxide, which is used to absorb the nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas.
Once the catalytic converter is heated up by the engine, these two catalysts work together to break down the harmful gases into easier-to-manage molecules. As the molecules hit the heated catalyst, the noble metals begin to oxidize the hydrocarbons, turning them into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2). The alkaline catalyst absorbs the nitrogen oxides, turning them into nitrogen, water, and other less toxic compounds.
Benefits of Catalytic Converters
Catalytic converters are an essential part of automotive emission control. Without them, smog-forming gases and other pollutants would accumulate in the atmosphere, causing serious health and environmental problems. Catalytic converters are designed to reduce the following emissions:
• Carbon monoxide: CO is a major contributor to air pollution, causing a number of respiratory problems. A catalytic converter helps reduce CO emissions by up to 90%.
• Hydrocarbons: HC is a major contributor to smog and other environmental problems. A catalytic converter helps reduce HC emissions by up to 98%.
• Nitrogen oxides: NOx is a major contributor to acid rain, smog, and other environmental problems. A catalytic converter helps reduce NOx emissions by up to 95%.
In addition to reducing harmful emissions, catalytic converters also help to improve a car’s fuel efficiency. By reducing the back pressure in the exhaust system, the catalytic converter allows the engine to burn fuel more efficiently, leading to improved fuel economy.
In conclusion, a catalytic converter is an essential part of any internal combustion engine and is mandated by most governments in order to protect the environment and human health. Catalytic converters are designed to reduce harmful emissions and improve fuel efficiency. If you own a vehicle with a catalytic converter, be sure to maintain it regularly to keep your vehicle running at peak performance.