Platinum
A rare, dense precious metal used as a primary catalyst in automotive catalytic converters to oxidise hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide into less harmful emissions.
Overview
Platinum (Pt) is one of the platinum group metals (PGMs) and is central to modern automotive emissions control technology. In three-way catalytic converters, platinum acts as an oxidation catalyst, converting hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) into carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O). It operates effectively across a wide temperature range and is highly resistant to chemical degradation, making it ideal for the harsh environment of an exhaust system. Platinum is extremely scarce — over 70% of global supply comes from South Africa — making it a critical and strategically important material. Its very high cost has driven significant research into reducing platinum loading per vehicle and into alternative PGMs such as palladium.
Automotive Applications
Similar Materials
Palladium
Platinum Group Metal (PGM)
A platinum group metal widely used in petrol engine catalytic converters to oxidise hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide into less harmful emissions.
Rhodium
Platinum Group Metal (PGM)
An extremely rare platinum group metal used primarily as a catalytic coating in automotive three-way catalytic converters.
Advanced Thermoplastic Resins
Thermoplastic Resin
High-performance thermoplastic resin systems (e.g. PA, PPS, PEEK, PEKK) used for structural and under-bonnet components requiring thermal and chemical resistance.
SMC / BMC
Sheet/Bulk Moulding Compound
Glass-fibre sheet and bulk moulding compounds for compression-moulded body panels and housings.
Properties
Category
Type
Platinum Group Metal (PGM)
Available Colors
Available Forms
Key Properties
- Exceptional catalytic activity
- High temperature resistance
- Corrosion and oxidation resistant
- Chemically stable in aggressive environments
- Extremely high density (21.45 g/cm³)
- Ductile and malleable
Technical Specifications
Density
21.45 g/cm³
Tensile Strength
125–240 MPa
Temperature Resistance
Up to 1,768°C (melting point); operational in exhaust up to ~900°C
Sustainability
Sustainability Rating
Highly recyclable — a significant proportion of platinum is recovered from end-of-life catalytic converters. However, primary mining is energy-intensive and concentrated in a few regions, creating supply chain risk. Recycling rates are improving with advances in urban mining.