Catalytic oxidation is a modern process for cleaning industrial exhaust air using a catalyst containing precious metals. This process is used to remove harmful organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants, especially CO, from exhaust air streams before they are released into the environment and negatively affect air quality.

The KNV is based on a chemical reaction in which pollutants are oxidized at relatively low temperatures using a catalyst. The catalysis reduces the activation energy of the reaction, so that a high conversion is achieved at temperatures between 250 °C and 400 °C. The pollutants are converted into two substances that are harmless to the environment, water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).

KNV systems are used in numerous industries, such as the chemical industry, painting, printing and food production. In addition to high conversions in chemical reactions, this process is characterized by low energy consumption compared to thermal afterburning (RTO), as lower temperatures are required.

Modern systems are equipped with energy-efficient heat recovery units that make operation even more environmentally friendly. As a result, catalytic afterburning not only contributes to environmental protection, but also helps to comply with legal emission limits and reduce operating costs.