Release of Nanoparticles in the Environment and Catalytic Converters Ageing

A Three-Way Catalyst (TWC) contains a cordierite ceramic monolith coated with a layer of Al(2)O(3), Ce(x)Zr(1−x)O(2) and platinoids mixture. Under standard operation, the platinoid concentration decreases, exposing the remaining washcoat structure. After that particle release stage, the sintering process follows where the crystalline Ce(x)Zr(1−x)O(2) solution is broken and begins to separate into ZrO(2) and CeO(2) phases. ZrO(2) is released to the environment as micro and nanoparticles, while a small amount of CeO(2) generates a new Al(x)Ce(1−x)O(2) composite. The main effect of Ce capture is the growth in the size of the polycrystal structure from 86.13 ± 16.58 nm to 225.35 ± 69.51 nm. Moreover, a transformation of cordierite to mullite was identified by XRD analysis. Raman spectra showed that the oxygen vacancies (Vö) concentration decreased as Ce(x)Zr(1−x)O(2) phases separation occurred(.) The SEM-EDS revealed the incorporation of new spurious elements and microfractures favouring the detachment of the TWC support structure. The release of ultrafine particles is a consequence of catalytic devices overusing. The emission of refractory micro to nanocrystals to the atmosphere may represent an emerging public health issue underlining the importance of implementing strict worldwide regulations on regular TWCs replacement.