Environmental Catalysts

The use of nanomaterials based on rare earth metal oxides allows for the preparation of thinner active layers, which can mean less precious metal usage. These nanomaterials also allow for the preparation of higher solids dispersions that are very stable, minimizing the number of coating steps and losses due to flocculated dispersions. Automotive catalytic converters are a key focus area for catalyst performance. While government regulations continue to drive lower acceptable emissions levels of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, automotive companies are attempting to lower the use of precious metals, such as platinum, palladium and rhodium, in the catalytic converter to lower cost while meeting the more stringent performance standards. Diesel engines are beginning to be subject to similar regulations as gasoline engines.

One way to achieve lower emissions in a cost effective manner is to utilize co-catalysts that provide good oxygen storage capability and thermal stability in thinner layers. NanoArc^TM ceria and mixed rare earth metal oxides meet the criteria necessary to enhance catalytic converter performance when properly incorporated into a catalyst system, and because they are dense, single phase individual crystals, there is nothing to collapse during thermal cycling. The same materials can be used in other types of environmental catalysts, such as exhaust converters for stationary and large internal combustion engines, chemical scrubbers and for other gaseous products and waste streams.