Recycling platinum group metals in catalytic converters

SciAps handheld XRF provides efficient and accurate measurements of Pt, Pd, and Rh for recycling catalytic converters

The platinum group metals (Pt, Pd, and Rh) found in catalytic converters are a growing market for recycling facilities. Accurate identification is essential, and these highly sought-after metals are even more valuable when the time it takes to analyze them is completed in seconds. Handheld XRF allows for efficient and accurate measurements of Pt, Pd, and Rh for price calculation. Specifically, SciAps X-50 handheld XRF is a unique, lower-priced model that is an excellent tool for quick determination of the presence of PGM. The X-50 features an X-ray tube that can run up to 50kV. It performs well and is a perfect fit for PGM analysis. In a recent test, a series of 13 catalytic converter samples were prepared and analyzed by the X-50, using a dedicated Car Cats calibration. The X-50 performed quite well compared to the lab, with R² values for all three elements greater than 0.99. Review the results here. In addition to the PGM elements measured, the X-50 measures several other critical elements that are indicative of the honeycomb matrix and washcoat, allowing for a more complete analysis and improved accuracy overall. The X-50 also analyzes other heavy elements that are often found in these samples, such as Ba, Ce and La. These elements can play an important role in matrix effects of the XRF analysis, so measuring and accounting for them can be critical to achieving accurate results for the precious metals.Using the SciAps X-50 makes recycling these valuable metals more profitable and provides a cost-effective solution for recovery in the precious metals industry – cash for gold, pawn shops, investment, and many others.

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