Emissions from systems that use a
catalytic converter are substantially reduced by introducing
hydrogen, or a
hydrogen containing fluid or fuel component, into the exhaust
stream being scrubbed by the
catalytic converter, resulting in instant lightoff and a significant reduction in emissions.
Hydrogen for injection into the exhaust
stream may, optionally, be generated within the vehicle using heat recovered from the
catalytic converter, and / or the engine or elsewhere in the exhaust
system, by a
thermoelectric generator, the electrical output of which may be used to perform
electrolysis and / or to power a reformer in order to generate the
hydrogen. The
thermoelectric generator may be retrofit onto the catalytic converter, or integrated in a way that enhances thermoelectric generation, including providing a catalyst coated
heat sink and integrated cooling pipes to enhance the thermal differential required for thermoelectric generation. Sensors such as an
oxygen sensor and temperature sensor may be provided to assess converter performance and adjust the temperature differential to ensure that the temperature of the converter remains optimum.