Platinum Group Metals & Catalysis
A dedicated study of platinum group metals (PGMs) — platinum, palladium, rhodium, iridium, osmium, and ruthenium — their extraction, catalytic applications in auto and hydrogen, and market dynamics tracked by WPIC and Johnson Matthey.
Program Features
- Self-paced
- Online
- Interactive LMS Content
- Blockchain-based Certificate
Program Features
- Self-paced
- Online
- Interactive LMS Content
- Blockchain-based Certificate
Description
The Rarest Metals in the Most Critical Applications
Platinum group metals — platinum, palladium, rhodium, iridium, osmium, and ruthenium — are among the rarest elements on Earth and among the most industrially indispensable. They are the foundation of automotive catalytic converters, hydrogen fuel cells, chemical production, and advanced electronics. A single country (South Africa) produces more than 70% of global platinum supply, and a single region (the Bushveld Complex) contains the overwhelming majority of known reserves.
This course offers a focused examination of PGMs, drawing on market intelligence from the World Platinum Investment Council (WPIC), Johnson Matthey's annual PGM market reports, USGS commodity data, DOE fuel cell research, and the International Platinum Group Metals Association (IPA).
Who This Class Is For
- Automotive and emissions professionals
- Hydrogen economy and fuel cell researchers
- Commodity investors and analysts focused on precious metals
- Chemical and catalysis engineers
Program Syllabus
Module 1: Introduction to PGMs
The six platinum group metals and their properties. Where they occur geologically. Overview of the Bushveld Complex and Norilsk deposits.
Module 2: Mining & Refining PGMs
Underground mining in South Africa. By-product recovery from nickel-copper smelting. Refining and separation of PGMs.
Module 3: Autocatalyst Applications
Three-way catalytic converters. Diesel oxidation catalysts. PGM loadings and trends. Impact of electrification on autocatalyst demand.
Module 4: PGMs in the Hydrogen Economy
Platinum in PEM fuel cells and electrolyzers. Demand scenarios for hydrogen scale-up. Research into loading reduction and substitutes.
Module 5: Other Industrial & Investment Applications
Chemical industry catalysts. Jewelry and investment bullion. Electronics and medical applications.
Module 6: PGM Market Dynamics
Supply concentration risk. Recycling and secondary supply. Price volatility drivers. WPIC market reporting and forecasting.