Although the catalytic converter was developed in the 1940s, its design has remained the same since then, despite the device playing an important role in the control of exhaust emissions from a vehicle, Auto Express explains.
Dr Benjamin Kingsbury, a scientist from Imperial College London, has designed a new catalytic converter which is considered to have a number of advantages when compared to the existing ones.
The improved structure of the channels within the device and the expanded surface area ensures more efficient reactions, Kingsbury claims. The converter prevents 'back pressure' and can reduce fuel consumption by up to 3%. Prototype tests have also shown that it can cut a vehicle's carbon dioxide emissions.
It is important to note that compared to existing devices, the new catalytic converter contains 80% less platinum – its manufacturing cost is therefore much lower as a result, as precious metals represent up to 70% of the manufacturing costs for existing converters. Owners of the new converters would no longer be afraid of being robbed by thieves who were previously attracted by the rare precious metal.
According to Kingsbury, the new device will also have a longer life; its performance will be reduced by 4% every 67,000 miles, compared to 35% in existing catalytic converters.
Kingsbury set up a company in December last year with the aim of introducing the new converter into market. He used funding from the Royal Academy of Engineering to start the project and as a next step he will seek to begin mass production.