Abstract:
A new series of compounds, represented by the formula: Cu, Mnx Mey Crz Ow, wherein Cu copper, Mn manganese, Me nickel or cobalt, Cr chromium, O oxygen; x is a number from 1 to 2, inclusive, and zero when Me is Ni and y and z are not zero; y is a number from 1 to 6, inclusive, and zero when x and z are not zero; z is a number up to 3, and zero when Me is Co and x and y are not zero; w is the index of oxygen which satisfies the valencies of the metals, having regard for their indices in the formula, that are useful as catalysts in the oxidation to CO2 and H2O of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons contained in the exhaust gases of internal combustion engines, the preparation and the pretreatment thereof are disclosed.