Since it was introduced in 1975, the catalytic converter has been the pervasive means of meeting emissions regulations for gasoline-powered vehicles around the world. In fact, since 2000, 100% of new cars sold in the U.S. and approximately 85% of all new cars sold worldwide have been equipped with a catalytic converter. The regulations controlling auto emissions in countries throughout the world have become increasingly restrictive, and will continue to tighten in the future. For example, new emissions standards known as Tier 2 in the U.S. and Stage IV in Europe are set to take effect in 2004 and 2005, respectively, and both will require significantly lower emissions levels than current standards

A catalyst is a substance that facilitates a chemical reaction without taking part in the reaction itself. Environmental catalytic converters convert harmful compounds into innocuous compounds. For example, three-way automotive catalytic converters convert hydrocarbons ("HC"), nitrogen oxides ("NOx") and carbon monoxide ("CO") into nitrogen ("N2"), carbon dioxide ("CO2") and water ("H2O"). Catalytic converters are made up of several different components contained in a metal housing that is incorporated into an automobile's exhaust system. These systems may contain multiple catalytic converters, each of which may contain several ceramic substrates. Each ceramic substrate is made from widely available materials formed into a honeycomb array of porous channels designed to maximize the surface area exposed to passing exhaust gasses. Each substrate is coated with an active catalyst coating that contains tiny particles of precious metals, which serve chemically to clean the exhaust. Once exhaust heats the coated substrates above 300 degrees Celsius, HC, NOx and CO molecules bind temporarily to the catalyst surface and are converted into innocuous compounds

MPC^® Coatings for Gasoline Automobiles
We invented and own a fundamentally unique and patented material technology for the development of catalysts. Our technology significantly improves catalytic performance, is highly durable and cost-effective. We have developed unique nanostructures that are extremely thermally stable and resistant to sintering.

Catalytic converters using our technology have superior catalytic performance, can cost substantially less as a result of significantly reduced PGM loadings, have comparable or better durability and are physically and operationally compatible with all existing manufacturing processes and operating requirements. Our solution is based on industry-leading, patent-protected technology and a scalable manufacturing business model.