Venus atmosphere the unlikely inspiration for new catalytic converter
02 Feb 2021
Professional Engineering
A meteorite material found in the atmosphere of Venus has inspired a new type of catalytic converter (Credit: Shutterstock)
A surprising feature of the toxic atmosphere on Venus has inspired a new type of catalytic converter.
The technology, which was developed by researchers at the University of Leeds, could work at lower temperatures and convert toxic emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NO
x) from diesel exhausts more effectively.
Vehicle fumes contribute to poor air quality in towns and cities. A recent report from Public Health England estimated that between 28,000 and 36,000 people a year die from long-term exposure to air pollution.