What is inside a catalytic converter?

Inside a catalytic converter, there are several components that work together to reduce harmful emissions from a vehicle's exhaust gases. The main components include the catalyst, which is typically made of precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals act as a catalyst to convert harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons into less harmful substances like carbon dioxide, water vapor, and nitrogen gas.

The catalyst is usually coated onto a honeycomb-like structure made of ceramic or metal to increase the surface area available for chemical reactions to take place. This structure is enclosed within a metal casing that is connected to the vehicle's exhaust system.

As the exhaust gases pass through the catalytic converter, the harmful pollutants are chemically transformed into less harmful substances through a series of redox reactions. This process helps to reduce air pollution and improve air quality.

Overall, the catalytic converter plays a crucial role in reducing emissions from vehicles and is required by law in many countries to help protect the environment and public health.