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The earthquake in Japan has caused global demand for platinum
group metals (PGM) to plunge, largely because of decreased demand from the Japanese
auto industry. PGMs are used in autocatalysts and catalytic converters,
important parts of a car's emissions control system.
Autocatalysts are ceramic or metallic cylinders that are
formed into a fine honeycomb and then coated with a solution of platinum group
metals (PGM) and chemicals. As anti-pollution devices, autocatalysts are used
in both gasoline-powered and diesel cars to convert carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons
into carbon dioxide and water vapor.
Autocatalysts are mounted inside a stainless steel cylinder
within a car's catalytic converter, and installed in the vehicle's exhaust line
between the engine and the muffler. Catalytic converters are also produced with
platinum group metals (PGM), typically palladium or platinum.
Long before the Japanese earthquake, governments around the
world began to adopt stricter vehicle emissions requirements to improve air
quality. Automotive suppliers followed suit, developing autocatalysts and
catalytic converters that required even more platinum, palladium, and rhodium.
In 2010, Japan consumed 20% of the world's platinum and 15%
of its palladium production. In 2011, the country's totals may look quite
different. How will the Japanese earthquake affect global demand for other metals?
Sources: Platinum
Today and Reuters
Africa
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Re: Quake Chokes Demand for Platinum Group Metals (PGM)
