catalytic converter

catalytic converter
an antipollution device in an automotive exhaust system that contains a catalyst for chemically converting some pollutants in the exhaust gases, as carbon monoxide, unburned hydrocarbons, and oxides of nitrogen, into harmless compounds.
[1960-65]

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In automobiles, a component of emission control systems used to reduce the discharge of noxious gases from the internal-combustion engine.

The catalytic converter consists of an insulated chamber containing pellets of catalyst through which the exhaust gases are passed. The exhaust's hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide are converted to water vapour and carbon dioxide.

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Universalium. 2010.

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