Rare Earth used in Catalysts

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Rare Earth used in Catalysts Catalysts accounts for a significant share of the REE market by volume (19 per cent), but only five per cent of the total market value. REE are essential in automotive catalytic converters, which transform the primary pollutants in engine exhaust gases into non-toxic compounds. Cerium carbonate and cerium oxide are used in the catalyst substrate and as a component of the converter's oxidizing catalyst system. The REE play a critical role in the chemical reactions within the auto catalyst and also enable it to run at high temperatures. They also increase the effectiveness and reduce the amount of platinum and other precious metals required, thereby decreasing costs. REE are also important in fluid cracking catalysts which are used in the process of refining crude oil, transforming the heavy molecules into lighter compounds that make up petrol and other fuels such as gas, jet fuel and diesel. Lanthanum and cerium are used to stabilize the structure and chemistry of the high surface area zeolites used as a molecular filter in this application.