Top 5 Materials Used in Automotive Catalytic Converters
Catalytic converters are sophisticated devices that rely on a combination of materials working together. The "top 5" can be divided into the three precious metals that perform the chemical reactions, the ceramic substrate that holds everything, and the washcoat & oxygen storage materials that enhance performance.
| Rank | Material Category | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rhodium | Reduces harmful Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) |
| 2 | Palladium | Oxidizes Carbon Monoxide (CO) & Hydrocarbons (HC) |
| 3 | Platinum | Oxidizes Carbon Monoxide (CO) & Hydrocarbons (HC) |
| 4 | Ceramic Substrate (Cordierite) | Provides a durable, high-surface-area physical structure |
| 5 | Washcoat (Alumina, Ceria, Zirconia) | Disperses precious metals and stores/releases oxygen to boost efficiency |
Posted May 8, 2026, 3:45 PM UTC
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