Catalytic converter turns 30

This month marks the 30th anniversary of the introduction of the catalytic converter into vehicles in the U.S.

The converter’s effectiveness is a directly result of platinum group metals (PGMs), which are also the basis of the “particulate trap,” a similar technology applied to diesel engines. Both technologies have improved air quality by reducing harmful auto emissions.

“Since catalytic converters were first fitted into 1975 models of cars, more than twelve billion tons of harmful gases have been rendered harmless worldwide,” says Marcus Nurdin, managing director of the International Platinum Association.

Autocatalyst technologies convert 97% of hydrocarbons, 96% of carbon monoxide and 90% of the nitrogen oxides produced by automobile engines into less harmful substances.

In 1960, a typical car emitted more than 100 grams of pollutants for every mile driven. Today, a new car bought in the U.S., Japan or Europe, where autocatalysts are required, emits only about two grams of pollutants per mile.

Catalytic converters have also helped reduce pollution less directly: since catalysts don’t function with leaded gasoline, rules mandating lead-free gasoline had to be enacted before the converters could be used. The U.S. government’s 1970 decision to require the sale of lead-free gasoline has removed 250,000 tons per of toxic lead per year from automobile emissions in that country.

Between 2002 and 2003, purchases of PGMs by the autocatalyst sector increased 23%. Last year’s purchases consisted of 3.2 million oz. platinum, 3.5 million oz. palladium, and 665,000 oz. rhodium.

Although PGMs are mined precious metals, the industry is confident supplies will continue to meet the increasing demand. Not only is a remarkably small amount (4-5 grams) of the metal used in the average catalytic converter, but PGMs are also highly recyclable. Indeed, up to 96% of the metal is recoverable. Last year, about 645,000 oz. platinum were recovered by recycling, whereas 410,000 oz. palladium and 123,000 oz. rhodium were recovered.

— The preceding is from an information bulletin published by the International Platinum Association, based in Frankfurt, Germany.