Reduction of Exhaust Gas Emissions by Using Pd-based Three-way Catalysts

Research programs were completed for the development of improved Pd-containing three-way catalysts, which were targeting on the future emission control standards for passenger cars. The influence of newly developed washcoat components as well as an improved precious metal location in special architectured washcoats on the catalyst performance is demonstrated by model gas and engine tests. The most promising catalyst systems were evaluated on different vehicles in U.S. and E.U. driving cycles. The results obtained in this study clearly indicate the potential of Pd-based technologies to be a cost effective alternative for Pt/Rh converters.