A catalytic converter is an essential part of a vehicle's exhaust system that reduces harmful pollutants produced by the engine into less harmful emissions before they are released into the atmosphere
. It contains catalysts, typically precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which facilitate chemical reactions that convert toxic gases into safer substances
. Specifically, a three-way catalytic converter performs three main functions simultaneously:
- Reduces nitrogen oxides (NOx), which contribute to smog and acid rain, into nitrogen and oxygen gases
- Oxidizes carbon monoxide (CO), a poisonous gas, into carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Oxidizes unburnt hydrocarbons (HC), which cause smog, into carbon dioxide and water
Inside the converter, exhaust gases pass over a ceramic honeycomb structure coated with these catalysts, which speed up the chemical reactions without being consumed
. The converter works best when the engine maintains an optimal air-to-fuel ratio, ensuring efficient pollutant conversion
. In summary, catalytic converters clean vehicle exhaust by transforming harmful emissions such as NOx, CO, and hydrocarbons into harmless nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and water, thereby reducing air pollution and protecting health and the environment
