How much Platinum is in a Catalytic Converter?

Eric · Jun 2, 2008

I was thinking about starting a collection of used Catalytic Converters but before I decide whether or not it is worth my time, I would like to know how much platinum is in them and are there any other precious metals in them.

Or maybe I should ask if I should even collect them at all?

markqf1 · Jun 2, 2008

Without firsthand knowledge of the emission standards in South Korea it would be hard to say. I can tell that here in the US they are definitley worth collecting.

Mark

Anonymous · Nov 29, 2008

Most Asian and European cats start at 1200ppm in Pt; about 400ppm in Pd; 250 to 280ppm in Rh
Most American cats start at 600ppm in Pt; 250 in Pd; 250 to 280ppm in Rh

I hope this helps

LaurenceOs · Jun 7, 2009

American emission laws are much looser than anywhere else. In the UK people are always looking for cats. /edit so the higher the emission restriction the more platinum is required... Also HEGO/lambda/oxygen censors have like a bulb inside with a layer of platinum on the inside and outside with silicon inbetween.. the oxygen somehow reacts with the platinum and passes current through the silicon which is used to determin rich/lean fuelling... dont throw them away!

I used to work at ford as a mechanic and sometimes we'd turn up in the morning and 5-10 cats would be cut straight out from underneath..

I'd say go ahead mate