Venus atmosphere inspires new catalytic converters

News

Researchers at Leeds University have developed a synthetic compound for use in catalytic converters which is

based on analysis of gases in the atmosphere of Venus.

The team believe their compound could be used in catalytic converters to reduce toxic emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from diesel engine exhausts.

Limitations to current technology include the use of costly platinum group metals and ineffectiveness until the engine is very hot. According to the Leeds team, their technology has been demonstrated to be effective at much lower temperatures.

“Although the sale of new diesel vehicles is likely to cease in some countries by 2030, diesel engines will still be in use long beyond that,” said project leader Dr Alexander James, research fellow in the University’s School of Chemistry. “They are found in buses, trains and on ships and are used as backup for micro-grid electricity generation - so there is a need for efficient catalytic converter technology.”

MORE ON SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY HERE

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