In modern society, the reduction of harmful emissions from internal combustion engines is a critical challenge, these pollutants, such as carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HCs), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), are produced as by-products of burning fuel. As a solution, three-way catalysts (TWCs) were developed to minimize pollutants, since they can simultaneously catalyze their oxidation and reduction reactions, thanks to their ability to reduce the activation energy needed to conduct both reactions. Current developments in TWCs include the use of noble metals like platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), and rhodium (Rh), supported on advanced ceramic substrates to maximize surface area and thermal stability. The three-way catalytic converter is crucial not only for reducing emissions but also for the proper performance of the engine and compliance with regulations. A mechanic must be trained to diagnose and repair issues related to this component, ensuring the vehicle's efficiency and preventing further damage. The main purpose of this work is to help students understand the operational mechanism of three-way catalysts (TWCs) through an analysis of their material composition, on top of studying the current state of three-way catalysts. Through this exploration, the importance of material science and chemical engineering in the development of sustainable automotive technologies is emphasized. To achieve this, TWCs samples are carefully examined, and their structural and functional components are studied in detail. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) are introduced as key techniques for investigating the structure, microstructure and elemental composition of the catalyst and support materials. Through these experiments, students gain valuable knowledge about the role of noble metals, as well as the ceramic substrates that support them, fostering a deeper understanding of their functionality and efficiency in emission control.

This experience has enabled students to engage with three key concepts of Materials Science throughout the entire study: composition, structure, and properties. This approach makes the work particularly engaging for undergraduate students and beneficial for instructors in the fields of Inorganic Chemistry and Materials Science, as it incorporates a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) methodology that encourages active learning, and a deeper understanding of the catalytic materials used in three-way catalysts.

Keywords: Three-Way Catalysts, Materials Science, noble metals, Problem-Based Learning, pollutants.