The Role of New Catalytic Converter Mounting Materials in Providing Durability and Efficiency

More demanding auto emission regulations, vehicle space limitations, and cost reductions from the use of thinwall monoliths are creating a need for catalytic converter design changes. The ceramic monolith mat mounting material plays an ever more important role or function in new converter designs. The paper will review the reason for catalytic converter design changes and how new mat formulations benefit the catalytic converter. A computer simulation model dealing with mechanical and thermal factors will demonstrate the affects of interrelated operating conditions on the predicted durability of the converter.

The paper will discuss the functionality of the mat in allowing a durable converter for use at low temperature inlet gas which are unique to Brasil, thin wall and ultra thin wall monoliths which offer cost savings, as well as high temperature precats which may become more prevalent in Brasil. Also the paper will deal with the performance of new expanding mats and introduce Non-intumescent mats.